Projection Device

ABSTRACT

A projection device includes: a plate shaped member that is thermally conductive; a light emitting element that is disposed upon the plate shaped member and emits light; a bending member that bends light from the light emitting element into an orientation parallel to the plate shaped member; a modulation element that modulates light bent by the bending member; and a polarized light separation element that bends light modulated by the modulation element into an orientation going away from the plate shaped member.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a projection device.

BACKGROUND ART

An electronic device endowed with a projection function is known (forexample, refer to patent Reference #1).

Patent Reference #1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication 2005-250392.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

With this type of compact projection device, the structure of the lightsource and the projection unit becomes complicated.

Means for Solving the Problems

According to the 1st aspect of the invention, a projection devicecomprises: a plate shaped member that is thermally conductive; a lightemitting element that is disposed upon the plate shaped member and emitslight; a bending member that bends light from the light emitting elementinto an orientation parallel to the plate shaped member; a modulationelement that modulates light bent by the bending member; and a polarizedlight separation element that bends light modulated by the modulationelement into an orientation going away from the plate shaped member.

According to the 2nd aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 1st aspect, it is preferred that at least the lightemitting element, the modulation element, and the polarized lightseparation element are integrated with the plate shaped member, and thepolarized light separation element and the modulation element are joinedto each other directly.

According to the 3rd aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 2nd aspect, it is preferred that: the modulationelement is a reflective type liquid crystal element; in the polarizedlight separation element, a predetermined surface upon whichnon-reflective processing has been performed is joined to a surface ofthe plate shaped member on which the light emitting element is disposed;and the polarized light separation element passes a first polarizedlight component of the light that is bent by the bending member to beparallel with the plate shaped member, to be conducted to the reflectivetype liquid crystal element, bends a second polarized light component ofthe light that is bent by the bending member to be parallel with theplate shaped member, that is different from the first polarized lightcomponent, to be conducted to the predetermined surface, and also bendslight modulated by the reflective type liquid crystal element into anorientation going away from the plate shaped member.

According to the 4th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 2nd aspect, it is preferred that: the projection devicefurther comprises an illumination optical system that projects lightemitted by the light emitting element in an orientation going away fromthe plate shaped member, and a projection optical system that projectsthe modulated light that has been bent by the polarized light separationelement into an orientation going away from the plate shaped member; thebending member is configured so as to be shiftable onto an optical pathof light emitted by the light emitting element and away from the opticalpath; and when the bending member is shifted onto the optical path, themodulated light is emitted from the projection optical system, where as,when the bending member is shifted away from the optical path, theprojected light is emitted from the illumination optical system.

According to the 5th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to anyone of the 1st through 4th aspects, it is preferred thatthe projection device further comprises a cooling unit that cools theplate shaped member from a surface on which the light emitting elementis disposed, or from a rear surface of the surface.

According to the 6th aspect of the invention, a projection devicecomprises: a member that is thermally conductive, and that has twosurfaces that mutually intersect; a light emitting element that isprovided upon one of the surfaces of the member, and that emits light inan orientation parallel to the other surface of the member; a modulationelement that modulates light from the light emitting element; and apolarized light separation element that bends light modulated by themodulation element into an orientation going away from the other surfaceof the member.

According to the 7th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 6th aspect, it is preferred that at least the lightemitting element, the modulation element, and the polarized lightseparation element are integrated with the member, and the polarizedlight separation element and the modulation element are joined to eachother directly.

According to the 8th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 7th aspect, it is preferred that: the modulationelement is a reflective type liquid crystal element; in the polarizedlight separation element, a predetermined surface upon whichnon-reflective processed has been performed is joined to the othersurface of the member; and the polarized light separation element passesa first polarized light component of light parallel to the other surfaceto be conducted to the reflective type liquid crystal element, bends asecond polarized light component of the light that is parallel to theother surface, that is different from the first polarized lightcomponent, to be conducted to the predetermined surface, and also bendslight modulated by the reflective type liquid crystal element into anorientation going away from the member.

According to the 9th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 7th aspect, it is preferred that: the projection devicefurther comprises an optical member that has a non-reflective processedregion and a reflective processing region; the modulation element is areflective type liquid crystal element; the optical member is configuredso as to be shiftable along a predetermined surface of the polarizedlight separation element; (1) when the non-reflective processed regionof the optical member is shifted so as to oppose the predeterminedsurface, the polarized light separation element passes through a firstpolarized light component of the light parallel to the other surface tobe conducted to the reflective type liquid crystal element, bends asecond polarized light component of the light parallel to the othersurface, that is different from the first polarized light component, tobe conducted to the non-reflective processed region, and also bendslight modulated by the reflective type liquid crystal element into anorientation going away from the member; and (2) when the reflectiveprocessing region of the optical member is shifted so as to oppose thepredetermined surface, the polarized light separation element passesthrough a first polarized light component of the light parallel to theother surface to be conducted to the reflective type liquid crystalelement, bends a second polarized light component of the light parallelto the other surface, that is different from the first polarized lightcomponent, to be conducted to the reflective processed region, passesthrough light of a polarized light component reflected by the reflectiveprocessing region to be conducted in an orientation going away from themember, and bends light modulated by the reflective type liquid crystalelement into an orientation going away from the member.

According to the 10th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to any one of the 6th through 9th aspects, it is preferredthat the projection device further comprises an optical system thatemits light in an orientation going away from the other surface of themember.

According to the 11th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to any one of the 6th through 10th aspects, it is preferredthat the projection device further comprises a cooling unit that cools arear surface of the member on which the light emitting element isdisposed.

According to the 12th aspect of the invention, a projection devicecomprises: a light emitting element that emits light; a modulationelement that modulates light from the light emitting element; and apolarized light separation element that bends light modulated by themodulation element, and the modulation element and the polarized lightseparation element are directly joined together.

According to the 13th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 12th aspect, it is preferred that the modulationelement comprises a-cover glass upon a surface that is joined to thepolarized light separation element.

According to the 14th aspect of the invention, in the projection deviceaccording to the 12th aspect, it is preferred that the modulationelement comprises a color filter.

ADVANTAGEOUS EFFECT OF THE INVENTION

According to the present invention, it is possible to build the lightsource and the projection unit of the projection device in a simplemanner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view showing an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a first embodiment of the present invention, asseen slantingly from the front;

FIG. 2 is a view showing this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector as seen slantingly from the back;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explanation of the circuit structure ofthis electronic camera with incorporated projector;

FIG. 4( a) is a plan view as seen from above of an optical system of aprojection unit, and FIG. 4 (b) is a left side view thereof;

FIG. 5( a) is an elevation view of this optical system of the projectionunit as seen from the front, and FIG. 5( b) is a left side view thereof;

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by a CPU in projection mode;

FIG. 7 is a flow chart for explanation of the details of projectionadjustment processing;

FIG. 8 is a flow chart for explanation of the details of checkingprocessing;

FIG. 9 is a figure showing an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a variant embodiment #8 as seen from the front;

FIG. 10 is a plan view as seen from above of an optical system of aprojection unit according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 11 is an elevation view of the optical system of FIG. 11 as seenfrom the front;

FIG. 12 consists of side views of this electronic camera withincorporated projector: FIG. 12( a) is a figure showing a state in whichthe projection unit is shifted to a housed position, while FIG. 12( b)is a figure showing a state in which the projection unit is shifted to ausage position;

FIG. 13 consists of side views of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a variant embodiment #9: FIG. 13( a) is a figureshowing a state in which a projection unit thereof is shifted to ahoused position, while FIG. 13( b) is a figure showing a state in whichthe projection unit is shifted to a usage position;

FIG. 14 consists of side views of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a variant embodiment #10: FIG. 14( a) is a figureshowing a state in which a projection unit thereof is shifted to ahoused position, while FIG. 14( b) is a figure showing a state in whichthe projection unit is shifted to a usage position;

FIG. 15 is an elevation view of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 16 consists of figures showing the electronic camera withincorporated projector of FIG. 15 in a state with its projection unitmade ready for use: FIG. 16( a) is a plan view, FIG. 16( b) is anelevation view, and FIG. 16( c) is a bottom view;

FIG. 17 is an elevation view of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a variant embodiment #11;

FIG. 18 consists of figures showing the electronic camera withincorporated projector of FIG. 17 in a state with its projection unitmade ready for use: FIG. 18( a) is a plan view, FIG. 18( b) is anelevation view, and FIG. 18( c) is a bottom view;

FIG. 19 is a figure showing an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, asseen from the front;

FIG. 20 is a figure for explanation of an electronic camera withincorporated projector according to a variant embodiment #14;

FIG. 21 is a figure for explanation of an electronic camera withincorporated projector according to a variant embodiment #15;

FIG. 22 is a figure for explanation of an electronic camera withincorporated projector according to a variant embodiment #16;

FIG. 23 consists of figures showing an example of an electronic camerawith incorporated projector according to a fifth embodiment: FIG. 23( a)is an elevation view, and FIG. 23( b) is a side view;

FIG. 24 is a figure for explanation of a facing down attitude in which aphotographic lens is facing downwards;

FIG. 25 consists of figures showing an example of an electronic camerawith incorporated projector according to a variant embodiment #17 towhich a lens cap and a photographic lens are installed: FIG. 25( a) isan elevation view, while FIG. 25( b) is a side view;

FIG. 26 consists of figures for explanation of a variant embodiment ofthe electronic camera with incorporated projector, in which itsinclination is corrected: FIG. 26( a) is an overall view, while FIG. 26(b) is a side view;

FIG. 27 is a side view showing an example of a horizontal stabilizationplate of an electronic camera with incorporated projector;

FIG. 28 is a side view showing an example of a horizontal stabilizationplate of an electronic camera with incorporated, projector;

FIG. 29 is a side view showing an example of a vertical stabilizationplate of an electronic camera with incorporated projector;

FIG. 30 is a figure showing an example of a vertical stabilization plateof an electronic camera with incorporated projector: FIG. 30( a) is afigure showing it in its folded away state, while FIG. 30( b) is afigure showing it in its rotated out state;

FIG. 31 is a block diagram for explanation of the circuit structure of acamera system according to a sixth embodiment;

FIG. 32 consists of figures showing an example of a camera system: FIG.32( a) is an elevation view, while FIG. 32( b) is a side view;

FIG. 33 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by a CPU of a projector;

FIG. 34 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by a CPU of an electronic camera;

FIG. 35 is a figure showing an example of a projector in which a focusring and a zoom ring are omitted;

FIG. 36 is a figure for explanation of a variant embodiment forarranging the optical system of the projection unit;

FIG. 37 consists of figures for explanation of a variant embodiment forthe arrangement of the optical system of the projection unit: FIG. 37(a) is a figure showing this optical system when it is emitting auxiliarylight for photography, while FIG. 37( b) is a figure showing thisoptical system when it is emitting projected light;

FIG. 38 is a plan view as seen from above of an optical system of aprojection unit of a variant embodiment; and

FIG. 39 consists of enlarged views of a PBS block and a liquid crystalpanel: FIG. 39( a) is a figure showing them when a cover glass isomitted, while FIG. 39( b) is a figure showing them when the cover glassis present.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

In the following, preferred embodiments for implementation of thepresent invention will be explained with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment One

FIG. 1 is a view showing an electronic camera to which a projector isaffixed (herein after termed an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector) according to a first embodiment of the present invention, asseen slantingly from the front. In FIG. 1, at the front of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10, there are provided aphotographic lens 11, an illumination light window 12, and a projectorprojection window 13. And, on the upper surface of this electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10, there are provided a releasebutton 14, a zoom switch 16, a mode changeover dial 15, and a mainswitch 22.

FIG. 2 is a view showing this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10 of FIG. 1 as seen slantingly from the back. In FIG. 2, onthe rear surface of this electronic camera with incorporated projector10, there are provided a liquid crystal display unit 17, an electronicviewfinder 18, actuation members 19, and a speaker aperture 20.

With this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10 being in astate of being mounted upon a desk or the like, projection informationsuch as an image or the like is projected from the projector projectionwindow 13 by an internally housed projection unit (i.e. by a projector)towards a screen that is placed in front of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10. The electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10 internally houses a speaker 21 behind the speaker aperture20, and this replays information such as audio or the like towards therear of the electronic camera 10.

The mode changeover dial 15 is a mode changeover actuation member forchanging over the operational mode of the electronic camera withincorporated projector between a photographic mode, a projection mode,and so on. The photographic mode is a mode in which an image of aphotographic subject is photographed, and the image data that has beenphotographed is stored as an image file upon a recording medium thatconsists of a memory card or the like. In the case of still imagephotography, a still image file is created, while in the case of movingimage photography, a moving image (movie) file is created. A photographystart command corresponds to an actuation signal that is outputted inresponse to depression actuation of the release button 14. Thiselectronic camera with incorporated projector 10 internally houses anillumination device that illuminates the photographic subject duringphotography. The auxiliary photographic light from the illuminationdevice is emitted from the illumination light window 12. In thephotographic mode, it is arranged for it to be possible for audio to becaptured by a mike that is housed within the rear of the speakeraperture 20 along with the speaker 21, and also for this audio data tobe stored upon the recording medium.

The projection mode is an operational mode in which image data that hasbeen previously photographed is read out or the like from the recordingmedium (for example, a memory card 150 or an internal memory that willbe described herein after), and a replay image according to this imagedata is projected from the projector projection window 13 by theprojection unit. If audio data is recorded, then audio replay is alsoperformed from the speaker 21. Apart from data that is recorded upon therecording medium, as the projection source, it is also possible toselect data that is recorded in the internal memory, or data that issupplied from the exterior of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10, or the like. The projection unit projects a replay imageaccording to the data that has been selected from among the projectionsources.

The electronic camera with incorporated projector 10 is provided with aretraction mechanism that retracts a lens barrel P of the photographiclens 11 into the camera chassis (body), so that the light that isprojected from the projector projection window 13 is not interfered withby the lens barrel P.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explanation of the circuit structure ofthis electronic camera with incorporated projector 10. The electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10 of FIG. 3 includes a projectionunit 220, a image-capturing unit 120, a CPU 101, a memory 102, actuationmembers 103, a liquid crystal display unit 104, a speaker 105, a mike106, an external interface (I/F) 107, and a power supply circuit 108. Amemory card 150 is fitted into a slot not shown in the figures. Thismemory card 150 can be removed and loaded. Moreover, a battery 109 isfitted into a battery holder not shown in the figures.

Based upon a control program, the CPU 101 performs predeterminedcalculations using signals that are inputted from various sections thatmake up the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10, andcontrols photographic operation and projection operations by outputtingcontrol signals to various sections of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10. It should be understood that this controlprogram is stored in a non-volatile memory within the CPU 101, not shownin the figures.

The memory 102 is used as a working memory for the CPU 101. Theactuation members 103 correspond to the main switch 22, the releasebutton 14, the zoom switch 16, and the mode changeover dial 15 of FIG. 1and the actuation members 19 of FIG. 2, and included a half press switchand a full press switch (not shown in the figures) that are turned ONand OFF together with depression actuation of the release button 14. Thehalf press switch is turned ON when the amount of depression of therelease button 14 reaches a half press actuation amount, while the fullpress switch is turned ON when the amount of depression of the releasebutton 14 reaches a full press actuation amount that is greater than itshalf press actuation amount. Each of the actuation members 103 sends anactuation signal to the CPU 101 corresponding to the details of itsactuation.

The memory card 150 is built from non-volatile memory such as flashmemory or the like, and, upon a command from the CPU 101, writing andstorage thereupon, and reading out therefrom of data for images thathave been photographed by the image-capturing unit 120, can beperformed.

An attitude sensor 111 detects the attitude of the electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10, and outputs its detection signal to theCPU 101. Based upon this attitude detection signal, the CPU 101 decidesduring the photographic mode-whether photography is being performed inthe horizontal position or in the vertical position, and decides duringthe projection mode whether the setting attitude of the electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10 is within a predetermined range ofinclination.

The photometric device 112 calculates the luminance of the photographicsubject using the detection signal from a photometric sensor, and sendsluminance information to the CPU 101. Based upon this luminanceinformation, during the photographic mode, the CPU 101 performs exposurecalculation and determines a control exposure. Furthermore, during theprojection mode, based upon this luminance information, the CPU 101decides whether or not projecting is appropriate.

The power supply circuit 108 is turned ON and OFF according to commandsfrom the CPU 101, and, when it is on, it converts the voltage from thebattery 109 to the voltages needed by the various circuits, and thussupplies electrical power to various sections of the electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10. It should be understood that,irrespective of the ON or OFF state of the power supply circuit 108, itis arranged for the CPU 101 always to be supplied with electrical powerwhen the battery 109 is loaded.

The liquid crystal display unit 104 (that corresponds to the referencesymbol 17 in FIG. 2) displays information such as images and text andthe like, according to commands from the CPU 101. Text information maygive the operational state of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10, or may be an actuation menu or the like. And the speaker105 (that corresponds to the reference symbol 21 in FIG. 2) replaysaudio from audio data that is outputted from the CPU 101.

The mike 106 converts audio that it has captured to an electricalsignal, that it sends to the CPU 101. During the photographic mode, thedata in this audio signal is recorded upon the memory card 150.

In order to display a replay image based upon a video signal that istransmitted from an external device such as a video camera or the likeupon the liquid crystal display unit 104, or in order to project it withthe projection unit 220, the external interface (I/F) 107 converts thisvideo signal into image data, and outputs the resulting image data afterconversion to the CPU 101. Moreover, in order to replay an audio signalthat is transmitted from an external device through the speaker 105,this external interface (I/F) 107 converts this audio signal into audiodata, and outputs the resulting audio data after conversion to the CPU101.

A temperature sensor 113 is disposed in the neighborhood of theprojection unit 220, and outputs a temperature detection signal to theCPU 101. Based upon this temperature detection signal, the CPU 101calculates the internal temperature in the neighborhood of theprojection unit 220.

<The Image-Capturing Unit>

The image-capturing unit 120 includes a photographic optical system 121(that corresponds to the reference numeral 11 in FIG. 1), an imagesensor 122, a lens drive unit 123, a photography control circuit 124,and a lens barrel retraction mechanism 125. A CCD or a CMOS image sensoror the like may be used as the image sensor 122. The photography controlcircuit 124, along with performing drive control of the image sensor 122and the lens drive unit 123 according to commands from the CPU 101, alsoperforms predetermined image processing upon image capture signals(accumulated electric charge signals) that are outputted from the imagesensor 122. This image processing may be color adjustment processing,edge accentuation processing, gamma correction processing, or the like.

The photographic optical system 121 images an image of the photographicsubject upon the imaging surface of the image sensor 122. Thephotography control circuit 124 starts the capturing of an image by theimage sensor 122 upon a photographic start command, and, after the imagecapture has ended, reads out the accumulated electric charge signal fromthe image sensor 122 and sends the image data to the CPU 101, after ithas been subjected to the image processing described above.

Based upon a focus adjustment signal that is outputted from thephotography control circuit 124, the lens drive unit 123 drives afocusing lens (not shown in the figures) that is included within thephotographic optical system 121 forwards and backwards along thedirection of the optical axis. Moreover, based upon a zoom adjustmentsignal that is outputted from the photography control circuit 124, thislens drive unit 123 drives a zoom lens (not shown in the figures) thatis included within the photographic optical system 121 forwards andbackwards along the direction of the optical axis (i.e. to the tele sideor the wide side. The focus adjustment amount and the zoom adjustmentamount are commanded from the CPU 101 to the photography control circuit124.

<Focus Adjustment of the Camera>

By shifting the focusing lens of the photographic optical system 121 inthe direction of the optical axis, the image capturing unit 120 performsfocus adjustment for the photographic optical system 121. If auto focusadjustment is to be performed, then the CPU 101 commands the photographycontrol circuit 124 to perform focus adjustment so that the integratedvalue of the high frequency component (the so called focus evaluatedvalue) in part of the image signal captured by the image sensor 122 thatcorresponds to a focus detection area (for example the center of thephotographic scene) becomes a maximum. The position of the focusing lensthat makes the focus evaluated value become a maximum is the focusingposition that makes the contrast of the image become a maximum, withoutthe edges of the image of the photographic subject that is captured bythe image sensor 122 becoming blurred.

<Zoom Adjustment of the Camera>

The image-capturing unit 120 performs optical zoom adjustment for thephotographic optical system 121 by shifting the zoom lens of thephotographic optical system 121 in the direction of the optical axis.The CPU 101 sends a zoom adjustment signal that corresponds to theactuation signal from the zoom switch 16 to the photography controlcircuit 124. For example, if a right turn actuation signal has beeninputted from the zoom switch 16, then the CPU 101 sends a zoomadjustment signal for zooming up, while if a left turn actuation signalhas been inputted from the zoom switch 16, then it sends a zoomadjustment signal for zooming down. The zoom switch 16 is built so as,alternatively, to output one of these two different actuation signals.

Furthermore, according to commands from the CPU 101, the photographycontrol circuit 124 sends a command to the lens barrel retractionmechanism 125 either to retract the lens barrel P (see FIG. 1) of thephotographic optical system 121 to within the chassis of the electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10, or to extend the lens barrel P,that is retracted within the chassis, out to its state duringphotography (see FIG. 1).

The Projection Unit>

The projection unit 220 includes a projection optical system 221, aliquid crystal panel 222, a LED (light emitting diode) light source 223,a lens drive unit 224, and a projection control circuit 225. Theprojection control circuit 225 supplies drive electrical current to theLED light source 223 upon a projection command being outputted from theCPU 101. And the LED light source 223 illuminates the liquid crystalpanel 222 at a brightness that corresponds to this supplied electricalcurrent.

Furthermore, the projection control circuit 225 generates a liquidcrystal panel drive signal that corresponds to the image data that issent from the CPU 101, and drives the liquid crystal panel 222 with thisgenerated drive signal. In concrete terms, to the liquid crystal layerof each of the pixels, it applies a voltage corresponding to the imagesignal. Upon application of this voltage, the arrangement of the liquidcrystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer changes, so that theoptical transmittivity of that liquid crystal layer changes. The liquidcrystal panel 222 creates an optical image by modulating the light fromthe LED light source in this manner according to the image signal.

The projection optical system 221 projects the optical image that isemitted from the liquid crystal panel 222 towards a screen or the like.And, based upon an offset adjustment signal that is outputted from theprojection control circuit 225, the lens drive unit 224 drives theprojection optical system 221 forwards and backwards in a direction thatis orthogonal to the optical axis. Moreover, based upon a focusadjustment signal that is outputted from the projection control circuit225, the lens drive unit 224 drives a focusing lens (not shown in thefigures) that is included in the projection optical system 221 forwardsand backwards along the direction of the optical axis. Furthermore,based upon a zoom adjustment signal that is outputted from theprojection control circuit 225, the lens drive unit 224 drives a zoomlens (not shown in the figures) that is included in the projectionoptical system 221 forwards and backwards along the direction of theoptical axis. The offset adjustment amount, the focus adjustment amount,and the zoom adjustment amount are commanded from the CPU 101 to theprojection control circuit 225.

<Offsetting the Projected Image>

By the projection optical system 221 being shifted in a directionorthogonal to the optical axis, the emission direction of the ray bundle(light flux) that is emitted from the projector projection window 13(see FIG. 1) is changed, and the projected image is offset adjusted. Itwould also be acceptable to provide a structure in which offsetting ofthe projected-image is performed, not by performing shifting of theprojection optical system 221, but rather by performing shifting of theliquid crystal panel 222 and the LED light source 223 in a directionthat is perpendicular to the optical axis. In other words, it ispossible to implement offsetting of the projected image by changing therelative positional relationship of the projection optical system 221and the liquid crystal panel 222 in a direction perpendicular to theoptical axis.

<Keystone Correction of the Projected Image>

Since the projected image would be changed into a trapezoidal shape bysimply imparting the above described offset to the projected image,accordingly the CPU 101 implements electronic keystone correction byperforming image processing in order to correct the projected image fromsuch a trapezoidal shape to a rectangular shape. An initial correctionvalue for compensating the projected image in advance to a rectangularshape is stored in the memory within the CPU 101. The CPU 101 reads outthe initial correction value that corresponds to the offset adjustmentamount, performs keystone correction processing in the memory 102 uponthe data for the image that is to be projected based upon this initialcorrection value that has been read out, and outputs the image dataafter this keystone correction processing to the projection controlcircuit 225.

<Focus Adjustment of the Projected Image>

The projection unit 220 performs focus adjustment for the projectionoptical system 221 by shifting the focusing lens of the projectionoptical system 221 in the direction of the optical axis. In the casethat manual focus adjustment is to be performed, the CPU 101 sends afocus adjustment signal that corresponds to an actuation signal from anactuation member 103 to the projection control circuit 225.

Auto focusing of the projection unit 220 is performed by a projectedimage being captured by the image-capturing unit 120. If auto focusadjustment is to be performed, then the CPU 101 sends a focus adjustmentsignal to the projection control circuit 225, so that the integratedvalue of the high frequency component (the so called focus evaluatedvalue) for the image signal, in the image signal captured by theimage-capturing unit 120, that corresponds to a focus detection area(for example the center of the photographic scene) becomes a maximum.The position of the focusing lens that makes the focus evaluated valuebecome a maximum is the focusing position that makes the contrast of theprojected image become a maximum, without the edges of the image of theprojected image, that is the photographic subject of the image-capturingunit 120, becoming blurred.

<Zoom Adjustment of the Projected Image>

The projection unit 220 performs zoom adjustment with the projectionoptical system 221 by shifting the zoom lens of the projection opticalsystem 221 in the direction of the optical axis. The CPU 101 sends azoom adjustment signal to the projection control circuit 225 thatcorresponds to the actuation signal from an actuation member 103.

<Projection Source: the Source>

According to a command from the CPU 101, the projection unit 220projects and replays contents from any one of the sources “source #1”through “source #4” described below. Each time a source changeoveractuation signal is inputted from an actuation member 103, the CPU 101outputs image data that corresponds to an image to the projection unit220, so as cyclically to change over the projected image of “source #1”through “source #3” in the order from “source #1” to “source #2” to“source #3” to “source #1”. However, if no memory card 150 is installedin this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10, then “source#1” is skipped over. Furthermore, if no external device is connected tothe external interface (I/F) 107, then “source #3” is skipped over.

Furthermore, when an actuation signal is inputted from an actuationmember 103 to changeover to chart projection, then the CPU 101 outputsimage data to the projection unit 220 corresponding to “source #4”described below.

Source #1: a replay image from data that has been read out from thememory card 150;Source #2: a replay image from image data that is recorded upon aninternal memory (a non-volatile memory within the CPU 101 or the like);Source #3: a replay image from data that is inputted from the externalinterface (I/F) 107;Source #4: an image that is a chart for focus adjustment, for example animage consisting of a banded pattern with black lines upon a whiteground.

When an image that corresponds to the above described “source #1” or“source #2” is to be projected, the CPU 101 reads out image data inorder from the memory card 150 (or the internal memory) first the imagedata whose recording date and time are the most recent (i.e. that imagedata, among the recorded image data, that was photographed last), andsends these image data that has thus been read out to the projectionunit 220.

<The Projection Module>

The details of the optical system arrangement of the projection unit 220will now be explained with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. FIG. 4( a) is aplan view as seen from above of the optical system of the projectionunit 220 that is incorporated in this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10, and FIG. 4( b) is a left side view thereof.Moreover, FIG. 5 is an elevation view of this optical system as seenfrom the front, and FIG. 5( b) is a left side view thereof.

The optical system of the projection unit 220 consists of a quadrangularprism shaped module (herein after termed the projection module) whosebottom surface is approximately a square that is approximately 10 mm ona side. The projection module is disposed so that its longitudinaldirection is horizontal, and to its left side surface there is joined acooling block 230 that is made approximately as a cube approximately 10mm on a side. It should be understood that, in order to make theinternal structure easier to understand, in FIGS. 4( a) and 5(a), thesize of the quadrangular prism in the longitudinal direction is shown asbeing longer than it actually is.

The projection module includes the LED 223, a mirror M1, a condensingoptical system 226, a light polarizing plate 227, a PBS (polarized beamssplitter) block 228, a liquid crystal panel 222, the projection opticalsystem 221, and an illumination optical system 229.

Among the above described members, apart from the projection opticalsystem 221 and the illumination optical system 229, all the othermembers constitute a unified structure upon a thin metallic plate. Inconcrete terms, the LED 223 is mounted upon a rectangular aluminum plate251 (upon a pattern that is formed over an insulating layer) that ismade in a quadrangular prism shape with one surface in the longitudinaldirection, and the mirror M1 that bends the light from the LED 223 inthe rightwards direction and a mirror support member (not shown in thefigures) that supports the mirror M1 are provided upon this base plate251. The mirror support member is adhered to the base plate 251, and themirror M1 is shiftable between a position shown by the broken line and aposition shown by the single dotted broken line. The driving of themirror M1 is performed using an actuator (a piezoelectric element or thelike) not shown in the figures.

Furthermore, on the right side of the mirror M1, the condensing opticalsystem 226 and the PBS block 228 are adhered upon the base plate 251.The PBS block 228 is a polarized beam splitter in which a polarizedlight separator 228 a that subtends an angle of 45° with respect to theincident optical axis is sandwiched between two triangular prisms.

Non-reflection processing such as, for example, black coloringprocessing or the like is performed upon the surface 228 b of the PBSblock 228 that is adhered to the base plate 251.

The light polarizing plate 227 is disposed upon the condensing opticalsystem side surface of the PBS block 228 (i.e. upon its left sidesurface), and the liquid crystal panel 222, that is constituted by areflective type liquid crystal element (LCOS) is disposed upon the rightside surface of the PBS block 228. Here, no cover glass is provided tothe liquid crystal panel 222 upon its PBS block side surface that emitslight (i.e. upon its left side surface), so that the liquid crystalpanel 222 is directly adhered to the right side surface of the PBS block228 (refer to FIG. 39( a)). It should be understood that, if such acover glass is not omitted, the surface of the cover glass and the rightside surface of the PBS block 228 are fixed together so as to be closelyadhered together, as shown in FIG. 39( b).

A lid member 252 made by processing an aluminum plate by sheet metalbending is disposed so as to cover over the various members upon theabove described base plate 251. An aperture 252 a and an aperture 252 bare provided in this lid member 252, and the projection optical system221 is disposed in the aperture 252 a, while the illumination opticalsystem 229 is disposed in the aperture 252 b.

While the above described apertures are shown in the figure, by way ofexample, as being made in the shape of quadrilaterals, it would also beacceptable to make these apertures in circular shapes. If such acircular shaped aperture is provided, and if the cross sections of theaperture is made as a screw, with the lens barrel of the projectionoptical system 221 being screwingly engaged into this screw, then itwould be possible to perform focus adjustment for the projection opticalsystem 221 by rotating the lens barrel manually.

The cooling block 230 consists of a heat dissipation (radiation) member232 that is made by forming a cube shaped aluminum block so that aportion thereof is approximately vane shaped in cross section, and acooling fan 231. The heat dissipation member 232 is joined at itssurface to the base plate 251, so that heat is well conducted from thebase plate 251. In concrete terms, a filler-material whose thermalconductivity is high is charged between the heat dissipation member 232and the base plate 251, or a sheet of high conductivity material issandwiched between them.

The cooling fan 231 may be, for example, an intake fan that takes in airfrom a vent aperture 23 that is provided in the front surface of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10. The intake air flowcools the heat dissipation member 232 while proceeding along the curvedsurface of the heat dissipation member 232, and changes its flowdirection upwards so as to be exhausted from a vent aperture 24 that isprovided upon the upper surface of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10.

The base plate 251 is built, not only so as to dissipate heat to theabove described cooling block 230, but also so as to dissipate heat toother members as well. For example, thermally conductive sheets or thelike are provided between the base plate 251 (particularly in theneighborhood of the heat dissipation member 232 and the LED 223) and ametallic back panel member (not shown in the figures) of the liquidcrystal display unit 104 (see FIG. 3), and between the base plate 251and a block member of a DC motor for lens driving (not shown in thefigures), so as to join them together and to conduct heat between them.

With the projection module of the structure described above, driveelectrical current is supplied to the LED 223 upon the base plate 251via a harness and a wiring pattern not shown in the figures. During theprojection mode, the mirror M1 is shifted by the mirror support memberto its position shown by the broken line (see FIG. 4), while during thephotographic mode it is shifted to its position shown by the singledotted broken line (see FIG. 4). The shifting of the mirror M1 isperformed according to a command from the projection control circuit225.

The LED 223 emits light of a brightness corresponding to the driveelectrical current in the downward direction in FIG. 4. In theprojection mode, this LED light is bent by the mirror M1 and iscondensed by the condensing optical system 226. The condensing opticalsystem 226 makes the LED light into approximately parallel light, thatis incident upon the light polarizing plate 227. The light polarizingplate 227 converts the incident light into linearly polarized light, andemits the polarized light after conversion towards the PBS block 228.

The polarized light ray bundle that is incident upon the PBS block 228(for example P polarized light) passes through the PBS block 228 andilluminates the liquid crystal panel 222. The liquid crystal panel 222consists of a plurality of pixels upon which red, green, and bluefilters are formed, and creates a color image. When the light thatpasses through the liquid crystal layer of the liquid crystal panel 222is incident upon the liquid crystal panel 222, it progresses throughthat liquid crystal layer in the rightwards direction, and, after havingbeen reflected by the reflective surface of the liquid crystal panel222, progresses in the leftward direction through the liquid crystallayer and is emitted from the liquid crystal panel 222, to be incidentupon the PBS block 228 for a second time. Since the liquid crystal layerto which voltage is applied functions as a phase plate, this light thatis incident upon the PBS block 228 for a second time is a mixture,consisting of modulated light that is S polarized light and unmodulatedlight that is P polarized light. Of this ray bundle that is incident fora second time, the PBS block 228 reflects (bends), with the polarizedlight separator 228 a, only the modulated light that is the S polarizedlight component, and emits it as projected light in the downwardsdirection towards the projection optical system 221. The position inwhich the projection optical system 221 is disposed corresponds to theprojector projection window 13 (see FIG. 1).

On the other hand, in the photographic mode, the LED light is notreflected by the mirror M1 but progresses in the downward direction, andis incident upon the illumination optical system 229. And theillumination optical system 229 emits this LED light at the optimumangle of view for auxiliary photographic light. The position in whichthe illumination optical system 229 is disposed corresponds to theillumination light window 12 (see FIG. 1).

Since the present invention is specifically distinguished by theoperation when the above described electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10 is changed over to the projection mode, accordingly theexplanation will focus upon the control that is performed by the CPU 101when the projection mode is started.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by a program that is executed in the projection mode by theCPU 101 of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10. If thepower supply is already ON, the processing in FIG. 6 starts when anactuation signal is inputted from the mode changeover dial 15 thatcommands the CPU 101 to change over to the projection mode; or, in thestate in which the mode changeover dial 15 is actuated to the projectionmode, when ON actuation of the main switch is performed.

In a step S1 of FIG. 6, the CPU 101, along with commanding theimage-capturing unit to go to OFF, also commands the liquid crystaldisplay unit 104 to turn its display OFF; and then the flow of controlproceeds to a step S2. Due to this, the image capturing operation isstopped, and display by the liquid crystal unit 104 stops.

In the step S2, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not thelens barrel P is in the retracted state. If the CPU 101 receives asignal from the photography control circuit 124 that indicates theretracted state, then an affirmative decision is reached in this step S2and the flow of control proceeds to a step S3B, while if the CPUreceives a signal that indicates the non-retracted state, then anegative decision is reached in this step S2 and the flow of controlproceeds to a step S3. In the step S3, the CPU 101 sends a retractcommand to the photography control circuit 124 and then the flow ofcontrol proceeds to the step S3B.

In the step S3B, the CPU 101 performs checking processing, and then theflow of control proceeds to a step S4. This checking processing is fordeciding whether or not the brightness of the room and the attitude ofthe electronic camera with incorporated projector 10 and the like aresuitable for projection, and the details thereof will be describedherein after.

In the step S4 the CPU 101, along with commanding the projection controlcircuit 225 to start projection, also changes the functions of therelease button 14 and the zoom switch 16 that are among the actuationmembers 103 that are provided upon the upper surface of the electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10, and then the flow of controlproceeds to a step S5. By the projection start command, the LED lightsource 223 in the projection unit 220 is lit up, the driving of theliquid crystal panel 222 is started, and the cooling fan 231 is started.It should be understood that it would also be acceptable to provide astructure in which the functions of the release button 14 and the zoomswitch 16 are changed over first, and projection is started upon fullpress actuation of the release button 14.

After the step S4 described above, until the change of function of theactuation members 103 is cancelled in a step S11 that will be describedherein after, the release button 14 and the zoom switch 16 are handledas actuation members that have different functions to those they had inthe photographic mode. In the case of the release button 14, it ishandled, not as an actuation member for issuing a photographic command,but as an actuation member for starting auto focus adjustment of theprojected image, changing over to the projected chart for focusadjustment image of the “source #4” described above, rotating theprojected image, and pausing the projection operation. And, in the caseof the zoom switch 16, it is handled, not as an actuation member forperforming zoom adjustment of the photographic optical system 121, butas an actuation member for performing zoom adjustment of the projectionoptical system 221 (i.e. of the projected image).

Moreover, after the step S4 in which projection by the projection unit220 is started, it is arranged to perform similar checking processing tothat performed in the step S3B as timer interrupt processing, each timea predetermined time period elapses (however, with the exception ofduring the processing of a step S12 that will be described hereinafter).

In this embodiment, the projection source “source #1” is set as thedefault setting during the projection mode. In the step S5, the CPU 101reads out the most recent image data from the memory card 150 and sendsthis read out image data to the projection unit 220, and then the flowof control proceeds to a step S6. Due to this, a replay image isprojected according to the image data that the CPU 101 sent to theprojection unit 220. It should be understood that, if audio data isstored in correspondence to the data file for the image that is beingprojected, then the CPU 101 replays audio corresponding to this audiodata from the speaker 105. The image data may be mixed, such as stillimage-moving image-still image-still image.

In the step S6, the CPU 101 makes a decision whether or not actuation bythe user has been performed. If an actuation signal has been inputtedfrom the actuation members 103 (see FIG. 3), then the CPU 101 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S6 and the flow of control proceeds toa step S7, where as if no actuation signal has been inputted from theactuation members 103 then the CP 101 reaches a negative decision inthis step S6 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S9.

In the step S9, the CPU makes a decision as to whether or not the imagedata sent to the projection unit 220 is an image that corresponds to theabove described “source #1” or “source #2” (in other words as to whetherit is an image that has been recorded by photography). If the image datasent to the projection unit 220 is a recorded image, then the CPU 101reaches an affirmative decision in this step S9 and the flow of controlproceeds to a step S10, where as if the image data sent to theprojection unit 220 is an image that corresponds to the above described“source #3” (in other words if it is a non-recorded image), then anegative decision is reached in this step S9 and the flow of controlreturns back to the step S6. It should be understood that a negativedecision is reached in the step S9, also in the case of a chart forfocus adjustment that corresponds to the above described “source #41”.

In the step S10, the CPU 101 decides whether or not time up hasoccurred. If an internal timer has timed a predetermined display timeperiod (for example 5 seconds), then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmativedecision in this step S10 and the flow of control returns to the stepS5, where as if the predetermined time period has not been reached thena negative decision is reached in this step S10 and the flow of controlreturns to the step S6. It should be understood that the timer times thetime period that has elapsed from when the data for the image beingprojected was read out.

If the flow of control returns from the step S10 to the step S5, thenthis is the case of performing so called slide show projection. In otherwords, an image is projected according to the image data that has beenread out from the memory card 150 (or from the internal memory), and,when 5 seconds has been timed, the next image data is read out from thememory card 150 (or from the internal memory), and the image beingprojected is sequentially updated to a projected image according to theimage data that was subsequently read out. It should be understood thatthe projection time period for each image during slide show projectionis not limited to being an interval of 5 seconds as described above; itmay be arranged to change this time period to any appropriate setting.

It should be understood that, separately from the above describedtiming, it would also be acceptable to arrange to read out the nextimage data from the memory card 150 (or from the internal memory) if anactuation signal is outputted from an actuation member (for example fromthe cruciform key type actuation member 19 shown in FIG. 2) thatspecifies actuation in the rightwards direction, and to readout theprevious image data from the memory card 150 (or from the internalmemory) if an actuation signal is outputted from an actuation memberthat specifies actuation in the leftwards direction.

In the step S7 that is reached in the case of an affirmative decision inthe step S6 described above, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whetheror not the actuation by the user is actuation for mode changeover. Ifthe actuation signal that has been inputted is an actuation signal fromthe mode changeover dial 15 for changeover to the photographic mode,then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S7 and theflow of control is transferred to a step S11. Moreover, if the actuationsignal that has been inputted is a source changeover actuation signalfrom the release button 14 and the zoom switch 16 (for example if anactuation signal from the zoom switch 16 and a half press actuationsignal from the release button 14 are inputted at the same time), thenthe CPU 101 reaches a negative decision in this step S7 and the flow ofcontrol proceeds to a step S8. Even further, if the actuation signalthat has been inputted is an actuation signal from the release button 14or the zoom switch 16, then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision inthis step S7 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S12. Ifthe flow of control has proceeded to the step S8 then this is consideredas being a command for source changeover, where as if the flow ofcontrol has proceeded to the step S12 then this is considered as being acommand for projection adjustment.

In the step S11 the CPU 101, along with commanding the projectioncontrol circuit 225 to terminate projection, also cancels the changeoverof the functions of the release button 14 and the zoom switch 16, andthen the processing of FIG. 6 terminates. Due to this, the LED lightsource 223 in the projection unit 220 is turned OFF, the driving of theliquid crystal panel 222 stops, and the cooling fan 231 stops.

In the step S8, the CPU 101 changes over the image data sent to theprojection unit 220 in the order described above from “source #1” to“source #2” to “source #3” to “source #1”, once for each time that anactuation signal from the zoom switch 16 and a half press actuationsignal from the release button 14 are inputted simultaneously, and thenthe flow of control is transferred to the step S9.

In the step S12 the CPU 101 performs projection adjustment processing,and then the flow of control is transferred to the step S9. The detailsof this projection adjustment processing will now be explained withreference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 7. In a step S51 of FIG. 7,the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not the actuation memberthat has been actuated by the user is the zoom switch 16. If theinputted actuation signal is an actuation signal from the zoom switch16, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S51and the flow of control proceeds to a step S52, where as if the inputtedactuation signal is not an actuation signal from the zoom switch 16,then a negative decision is reached in this step S51, and the flow ofcontrol is transferred to a step S53.

In the step S52 the CPU 101 performs optical zooming processing, andthen the flow of control returns to the step S51. As such opticalzooming processing, for example, if the zoom switch 16 has been actuatedby being turned to the right, then the CPU 101 may send a zoomadjustment signal to the projection control circuit 225 so as to zoom upthe projected image, where as, if the zoom switch 16 has been actuatedby being turned to the left, then the CPU 101 may send a zoom adjustmentsignal to the projection control circuit 225 so as to zoom down theprojected image.

In the step S53, the CPU makes a decision as to whether or not therelease button 14 has been half press actuated by the user (in otherwords as to whether or not an actuation signal has been outputted fromthe half press switch). If the signal that has been inputted is a halfpress actuation signal, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decisionin this step S53 and the flow of control proceeds to a step S54, whereas if it is not a half press actuation signal then a negative decisionis reached in this step S53 and the flow of control is transferred to astep S56.

In the step S54, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not along press has been performed. If the half press actuation signal hasbeen released within a predetermined time period (for example 3seconds), then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision in this step S54and the flow of control proceeds to a step S55, where as if the halfpress actuation signal has been maintained for the predetermined timeperiod or longer then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision inthis step S54, and the flow of control is transferred to a step S59.

A half press actuation signal during that the release button 14 has beenhalf press actuated but not pressed for a long time, corresponds to anauto focus (AF) command. Thus, in the step S55, the CPU 101 starts AFprocessing, and then the flow of control proceeds to a step S55B. Inconcrete terms, along with commanding the photography control circuit124 to turn the image-capturing unit ON, the CPU 101 sends a focusadjustment signal to the projection control circuit 225 so as to makemaximum the focus evaluated value, that is obtained from the imagesignal that is captured by the image-capturing unit 120. Thephotographic subject that is captured by the image-capturing unit 120 isthe projected image upon the screen. It should be understood that thefocusing lens of the photographic optical system 121 is shifted to apredetermined position during the AF processing of this step S55 (forexample, to a position that corresponds to a photographic subjectdistance of 1 m from the electronic camera with incorporated projector10). When the AF processing ends, the CPU 101 commands the photographycontrol circuit 124 to turn the image-capturing unit OFF, and returnsthe focusing lens to its original position.

In the step S55B, the CPU 101 stores the contrast information that hasbeen acquired by the AF processing in the memory 102, and then the flowof control returns to the step S51. The contrast information becomesdistance information to the screen. Contrast information obtained whenan image of the chart for focus adjustment of “source #4” that wasprojected from the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10 to ascreen 1 m away was captured, is stored in advance in the CPU 101 asreference data. The CPU 101 stores the contrast information that hasbeen acquired, so as to be able to compare it with the reference data ina step S65 that will be described herein after.

A half press actuation signal during that the release button 14 has beenhalf press actuated for a long time, corresponds to a changeover commandfor turning chart projection between ON and OFF. Thus, in the step S59,the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not the above describedchart for focus adjustment of “source #4” is being projected. If such achart image is being projected (i.e. if the image data for the chart forfocus adjustment has been sent to the projection unit 220), then the CPU101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S59 and the flow ofcontrol proceeds to a step S60, where as if a replay image from any oneof “source #1” through “source #3” described above is being replayed,then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision in this step S59, and theflow of control is transferred to a step S61.

In the step S60, the CPU 101 turns chart projection OFF. In concreteterms, instead of the chart image, the CPU 101 sends to the projectionunit 220 the image data that was projected most recently, so as toproject the replay image of that one of the above described “source #1”through “source #3” that was most recently projected before theprojection of the chart; and then the flow of control returns to thestep S51.

In the step S61, the CPU 101 turns chart projection ON. In concreteterms, instead of the replay image of one of the above described “source#1” through “source #3”, the CPU 101 sends to the projection unit 220the chart image data, so as to project the chart image of the abovedescribed “source #4”; and then the flow of control returns to the stepS51.

In the step S56, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not therelease button has been full press actuated by the user (in other wordswhether an actuation signal has been outputted from the full pressswitch). If the actuation signal that has been inputted is a full pressactuation signal, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision inthis step S56 and the flow of control proceeds to the step S57, where asif it is not a full press actuation signal then a negative decision isreached in this step S56 and the flow of control is transferred to thestep S65.

In the step S57, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not thefull pressing has continued for a long time. If the full press actuationsignal has been cancelled within a predetermined time period (forexample, 3 seconds), then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision inthis step S57 and the flow of control proceeds to a step S58, where asif the full press actuation signal has been continued for thepredetermined time period or greater then the CPU 101 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S57 and the flow of control istransferred to a step S62.

A full press actuation signal due to full press actuation of the releasebutton 14 that is not continued for a long time period corresponds to acommand for rotation of the projected image. In the step S58, the CPU101 rotates the projected image in the manner described below, and thenthe flow of control returns to the step S51.

<Rotating the Projected Image>

Having rotated the image data in the memory 102 clockwise through 90°,the CPU 101 sends the image data after this rotation processing to theprojection unit 220. At this time, the CPU 101 also performs sizematching conversion processing, according to the aspect ratio of theprojected image, so as to keep the image after rotation processingwithin the projection range. For example, if the aspect ratio of theimage data is 4 horizontally by 3 vertically, and the aspect ratio ofthe liquid crystal panel 222 is also expressed as 4 horizontally by 3vertically, then, after the image has been processed by rotation, itsdata size is shrinkage processed so that it has ¾ of the number ofpixels both in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction.As a result, an image is projected upon which rotation processing andshrinkage processing have been performed, so that the long side of theimage data and the short side of the liquid crystal panel 222correspond.

The CPU 101 is built so as to repeat the above described size conversionprocessing and rotation processing each time a rotation command for theprojected image is inputted. In this size conversion processing,according to the above described aspect ratios, shrinkage processing toshrink the number of pixels by ¾ both vertically and horizontally (i.e.so as to make the long side of the image data correspond to the shortside of the liquid crystal panel 222) and enlargement processing tomagnify the number of pixels by 4/3 both vertically and horizontally(i.e. so as to make the long side of the image data correspond to thelong side of the liquid crystal panel 222) are performed alternatingly.By the above described rotation processing, for example, if the rotationcommand for the projected image is performed four times in succession,along with rotating the projected image clockwise through one turn, thesize of the projected image is also returned to the same size as beforethe rotation command for the projected image was inputted. It should beunderstood that it could also be arranged for the rotation direction ofthe projected image to be anticlockwise.

A full press actuation signal in which the full pressing actuation ofthe release button 14 is continued for a long time period corresponds toa command to changeover the projection operation between paused andcancelled. Thus, in the step S62, the CPU 101 makes a decision as towhether or not the projection operation is being paused. Ifcorresponding to the long time period pressing actuation the projectionoperation is being paused, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmativedecision in this step S62 and the flow of control proceeds to a stepS63, where as if projection is being performed then it reaches anegative decision in this step S62 and the flow of control istransferred to a step S64.

In the step S63, the CPU 101 cancels the pause. In concrete terms, theCPU 101 sends a command to the projection control circuit 225 to resumethe supply of electrical current to the LED light source 223 and theliquid crystal panel 222, and then the flow of control returns to thestep S51. Due to this, the projection of an optical image from theprojection unit 220 is resumed.

During pausing, if the contents being projected is the above described“source #1”, then the information on the memory card 150, and the datathat has been read in from the memory card 150, are stored in the memory102. In a similar manner, if the contents being projected is the abovedescribed “source #3”, then communication is continued between theexternal interface 107 and the external device, and the data that isreceived by the external interface 107 is stored in the memory 102. Bystoring the data during pausing in the memory 102 in this manner, whenthe pausing is cancelled, it is possible immediately to resumeprojection using the data that is stored in the memory 102.

In the step S64, the CPU 101 pauses the projection operation. Inconcrete terms, the CPU 101 sends a command to the projection controlcircuit 225 to stop the supply of electrical current to the LED lightsource 223 and the liquid crystal panel 222, and then the flow ofcontrol returns to the step S51. Due to this, the projection of anoptical image from the projection unit 220 is stopped.

In the step S65, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not thedistance is OK. The CPU 101 compares together the contrast informationthat was stored in the step S55B and the reference data described above,and if the contrast difference between them is within a predetermineddifference it decides that the distance is OK, and terminates theprocessing of FIG. 7 so that the flow of control is transferred to thestep S9 of FIG. 6. If the contrast difference becomes a minimum, thedistance from the screen is 1 m, and this is when the focus of theprojection optical system 221 is appropriately adjusted. If the distanceto the screen is not 1 m, then the contrast difference becomes greater.If the contrast difference is greater than the predetermined difference,then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision in this step S65 and theflow of control proceeds to a step S66.

In the step S66, the CPU 101 issues a command to the projection controlcircuit 225, and, along with superimposing a message upon the projectedimage, also displays a similar message upon the liquid crystal displayunit 104, and then the processing of FIG. 7 terminates. The contents ofthis message may be, for example, “Please check the distance to thescreen” or the like, in order to invite the user to check theinstallation of the screen.

The AF processing in the step S55 described above will now be furtherexplained. In order to perform auto focus adjustment with the projectionoptical system 221 using the so-called hill climbing focus detectionmethod, this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10 drives thefocusing lens (of the projection optical system 221) forwards andbackwards along the direction of the optical axis while performingprojection from the projection unit 220 towards the screen, andrepeatedly captures the image projected upon the screen with theimage-capturing unit 120.

Accordingly, during the above described AF processing, the projectioncontrol circuit 225 performs both driving of the LED light source 223and also driving of the focusing lens (of the projection optical system2221). The driving of the focusing lens is performed by pulse driving aDC motor (not shown in the figures) within the lens drive unit 224. Theelectrical current that is supplied to the DC motor for this pulsedriving may be supposed to be, for example, an electrical current inpulse form of frequency 60 Hz and duty ratio 50%.

On the other hand, during the driving of the DC motor, the electricalcurrent that is supplied to the LED light source 223 is also supposed tobe an electrical current in pulse form of frequency 60 Hz and duty ratio50%. The projection control circuit 225 shifts the phase of these twocurrents apart by 180°, so that the peak value of the drive electricalcurrent to the DC motor and the peak value of the drive electricalcurrent to the LED light source 223 do not overlap. The reason for thisis in order to suppress the peak consumption of electrical current bythe projection unit 220 and thus to alleviate the load upon the powersupply circuit 108 (to put it in another manner, upon the battery 109).

Although the projected image is caused to blink due to this pulsedriving of the LED light source 223, since the blink frequency is 60 Hz,the user who is observing the projected image does not feel any sense ofdiscomfort or the like due to the flickering. When not driving the focusmotor (i.e. when not supplying pulse electrical current to the DCmotor), the projection control circuit 225 returns the electricalcurrent that is supplied to the LED light source 223 to DC electricalcurrent.

It should be understood that the same type of operation is performedwhen driving both the LED light source 223 and the focusing lens of theimage-capturing unit 120. In other words, when shifting the focusinglens of the photographic optical system 121 to its predeterminedposition during the AF processing of the step S55, the photographycontrol circuit 124 supplies a pulse form electrical current offrequency 60 Hz and duty, ratio 50% to the DC motor (not shown in thefigures) within the lens drive unit 123 that drives the focusing lens(of the photographic optical system 121). And the CPU 101 controls thephotography control circuit 124 and the projection control circuit 224so that the peak value of the drive electrical current to the DC motorwithin the image-capturing unit 120, and the peak value of the driveelectrical current to the LED light source 223, do not overlap oneanother.

The details of the checking processing will now be explained withreference to the flow chart shown in FIG. 8. In a step S81 of FIG. 8,the CPU 101 detects the brightness of the surroundings based upon theluminance information from the photometric device 112, and then the flowof control proceeds to a step S82.

In the step S82, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not thebrightness is less than or equal to a predetermined value. If thebrightness is less than or equal to the predetermined value (forexample, this may correspond to ⅓ of the brightness due to theprojection unit 220 at maximum projection luminance) then the CPU 101reaches an affirmative decision in this step S82 and the flow of controlproceeds to a step S83, where as if the brightness is greater than thepredetermined value, then a negative decision is reached in this stepS83 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S87. When the flowof control is transferred to the step S87, then it is the case thatprojection is not appropriate because the surroundings are too bright.

In the step S83, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not theattitude is OK. If, based upon the detection signal from the attitudesensor 111, the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10 is within a predetermined inclination range(for example, ±10° either forward, backward, leftward, or rightward withrespect to the horizontal direction), or if the setting attitude isconstantly changing (i.e. the camera is currently hand-held), then theCPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S83 and the flow ofcontrol proceeds to a step S84, where as if the detected attitude isgreater than the predetermined inclination range, then a negativedecision is reached in this step S83 and the flow of control istransferred to the step S87. When the flow of control is transferred tothe step S87, then it is the case that there is a fear of imparting afeeling of discomfort to the observer of the projected image.

In the step S84, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not thetemperature is OK. If, based upon the temperature detection signal fromthe temperature sensor 113, the temperature within the camera in theneighborhood of the projection unit 220 is less than or equal to apredetermined temperature (for example 60° C.), then the CPU 101 reachesan affirmative decision in this step S84 and the flow of controlproceeds to a step S85, where as if the temperature within the camera isgreater than the predetermined temperature, then a negative decision isreached in this step S84 and the flow of control is transferred to astep S92. When the flow of control is transferred to the step S92, thenit is the case that heat dissipation (radiation) from the projectionunit 220 is not being appropriately performed.

In the step S85, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or notprojection is currently stopped. If the projection of an optical imageis stopped by a step S88 that will be described herein after, then theCPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S84 and the flow ofcontrol proceeds to a step S86, where as if an optical image is beingprojected then a negative decision is reached in this step S85 and theprocessing of FIG. 8 terminates (i.e. the flow of control returns toFIG. 6). It should be understood that this stoppage of projection isstoppage due to the step S88, and it will be supposed that it does notinclude pausing in response to pressing actuation of the full pressswitch for a long time period (see the step S64 of FIG. 7). Moreover, anegative decision is also reached in the step S85 if this is beforeprojection has started.

In the step S86, the CPU 101 resumes the projection operation. Inconcrete terms, in a similar manner to the cancellation of pausingdescribed above (the step S63 of FIG. 7), the supply of electricalcurrent to the LED light source 223 and to the liquid crystal panel 222is resumed, and then the processing of FIG. 8 terminates (i.e. the flowof control returns to FIG. 6). Due to this, the projection of an opticalimage from the projection unit 220 automatically resumes.

In the step S87 that is proceeded to in the case of a negative decisionbeing reached in the step S82 or the step S83, the CPU 101 makes adecision as to whether or not projection is currently being performed.If an optical image is currently being projected from the projectionunit 220, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this stepS87 and the flow of control proceeds to a step S88, where as if nooptical image is currently being projected, then a negative decision isreached in this step S87 and the flow of control is transferred to astep S89.

In the step S88, the CPU 101 stops the projection operation. In concreteterms, in a similar manner to the pausing described above (the step S64of FIG. 7), the supply of electrical current to the LED light source 223and the liquid crystal panel 222 is stopped, and then the flow ofcontrol is transferred to a step S90. Due to this, the optical imageceases to be projected from the projection unit 220.

In the step S90, the CPU 101 displays a message upon the liquid crystaldisplay unit 104, and then the processing of FIG. 8 terminates (i.e. theflow of control returns to FIG. 6). The contents of the message may be,for example, “Projection paused”. Moreover, it would also be acceptableto arrange to display a message “Too bright” if a negative decision hasbeen reached in the step S82, and to display a message “Camera tilted”if a negative decision has been reached in the step S83, or the like, inorder to invite the user to deal with these situations.

In the step S89 that is reached if a negative decision is made in thestep S87, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not this isbefore the start of projection. If this is before the start ofprojection in the step S4 (of FIG. 4), then the CPU 101 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S89 and the flow of control istransferred to a step S93, where as if this is after the start ofprojection then a negative decision is reached in this step S89 and theflow of control is transferred to a step S91.

In the step S91, the CPU makes a decision as to whether or not apredetermined time period has elapsed after projection has stopped. Ifthe predetermined time period (for example three minutes) has elapsedfrom when projection stopped due to the step S88, then the CPU 101reaches an affirmative decision in this step S91 and the flow of controlproceeds to a step S92, where as if the predetermined time period hasnot elapsed, then a negative decision is reached in this step S91 andthe processing of FIG. 8 terminates (i.e. the flow of control returns toFIG. 6).

And in the step S92 the CPU 101, along with displaying a message on theliquid crystal display unit 104, also terminates projection processing(see FIGS. 6 and 8). The contents of the message may be, for example,“Projection ended”. Moreover it would also be acceptable, addingdisplaying the message “Too bright” if a negative decision is reached inthe step S82, to displaying the message “Camera tilted” if a negativedecision is reached in the step S83, and displaying a message “Pleaseallow heat to dissipate” if a negative decision is reached in the stepS84, also, in each case, to invite the user to deal with thecorresponding situation. At the end of the step S92, the supply ofelectrical current to the various parts of the power supply circuit 108is terminated and the power is turned OFF, while leaving the messagedisplayed upon the liquid crystal display unit 104. After the power isthus turned OFF, the CPU 101 starts the processing of FIG. 6 for asecond time when an actuation signal is inputted from the main switch22.

In the step S93 that is reached upon an affirmative decision in the stepS89, the CPU 101 displays a message upon the liquid crystal display unit104, and then this processing terminates (i.e. the flow of controlreturns to FIG. 6). The contents of the message may be, for example,“Please prepare for projection”.

According to the first embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) Since the members whose temperatures are elevated (i.e. the LEDlight source 223, the cooling block 230, and the vent aperture 24) aredisposed upon the central upper portion of the body of the electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10, accordingly it is possible tobuild a structure in which the user cannot easily touch the spots whosetemperatures are elevated.

(2) Since the LED light source 223 is mounted upon the thin base plate251 that is rectangular in shape, accordingly the workability isenhanced, as compared with the case when it is mounted upon a base platethat is made with bending processing.

(3) Since the cooling block 230 is disposed upon the end portion of thebody of the camera, accordingly air intake and exhaust by the fan 231are performed with good efficiency.

(4) Since it is arranged to provide a curved surface upon the heatdissipation member 232, so that the sucked in air flow changes its pathupwards while it passes along this curved surface and cools the heatdissipation member 232, accordingly the air flow whose temperature hasbeen elevated due to heat exchange does not stagnate, and it can bedischarged from the vent aperture on the upper surface of the camerabody.

(5) Since, in addition to providing conduction of the heat which isgenerated in the base plate 251 to the cooling block 230, it is alsoarranged to conduct this heat to the metallic back panel member of theliquid crystal display unit 104 (see FIG. 3) and to the block member ofthe DC motor for driving the lens, accordingly it is possible to performheat dissipation with good efficiency.

(6) Since the LED light source 223 is made to serve as a structure foremitting both auxiliary photographic light and also projected light,accordingly it is possible to reduce the cost, as compared to the casewhen separate LED light sources are provided.

(7) Since it is arranged for the auxiliary photographic light to beemitted without passing through the PBS block 228, accordingly the lossis smaller as compared with the case of this light passing through thePBS block 228, and it is possible to make the guide number larger.

(8) Since the liquid crystal panel 222 is directly adhered to the PBSblock, accordingly it is possible to omit any cover glass for the liquidcrystal panel 222, so that the advantageous effect is obtained of makingthe structure more compact and simplifying the construction process.Moreover, by joining these directly together without any air layer beinginterposed between them, it is possible to suppress the reflection(normally around 4%) that occurs at an interface between an air layerand a glass material (i.e. the PBS) even though no anti-reflectivecoating for preventing reflection is provided. As a result, loss of theprojected light is reduced, and a brighter projected image is obtained.Moreover, when a direct junction is provided, it is only necessary topress the mutually opposing surfaces together, and the job of adjustingthe gap between the mutually opposing surfaces that is required when anair layer is interposed is unnecessary, so that it is possible to reducethe man-hours required for the task of assembly. In addition, due to themethod of generating a color image with a single plate type structure inwhich a color filter is provided to the liquid crystal panel 222, nosolid junction is required, so that, as compared to the case of a socalled three plates type structure, the job of assembly is simpler.

(9) Since non-reflective processing is performed upon the surface 228 bof the PBS block, accordingly stray light is suppressed, and a projectedimage of high quality is obtained.

(10) Since, if the brightness of the projection environment is brighterthan a predetermined value (a negative decision in the step S82), it isarranged to stop the projection (in the step S88) if projection istaking place, accordingly it is possible to prevent useless projectionbeing performed in a bright location that is not suitable forobservation of the projected image.

(11) Since, if the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10 exceeds the predetermined range of inclination(a negative decision in the step S83), then it is arranged to stop theprojection (in the step S88) if projection is taking place, accordinglyit is possible to prevent a feeling of discomfort being imparted to theuser due to the projected image being inclined, and to prevent uselessprojection being performed when the projected light is interfered withby the setting or mounting surface such as a desk or the like.

(12) Since a message is displayed upon the liquid crystal display unit104 after projection has stopped (in the step S88), accordingly the useris invited to deal with the situation.

(13) Since projection is resumed automatically (in the step S86) if apredetermined brightness and a predetermined setting attitude areestablished within a predetermined time period after the stoppage ofprojection, accordingly the convenience of use is better, as comparedwith what it would be if it was necessary to perform actuation again forstarting projection.

(14) Since the processing ends (with power OFF) (in the step S92) afterthe predetermined time period has elapsed after the stoppage ofprojection (an affirmative decision in the step S91), accordingly, ifprojection has started against the intentions of the user due tomistaken actuation or the like, useless continuation of the supply ofelectrical power is prevented. Moreover, since a message is displayedupon the liquid crystal display unit 104, accordingly the user isnotified of the fact that projection has ended (and the power has goneOFF).

(15) Since the projection processing is terminated (and the power isturned OFF) (in the step S92) if the temperature within the camera ishigher than the predetermined temperature (a negative decision in thestep S84), accordingly continuation of the supply of electrical currentin a state in which heat dissipation is not being appropriatelyperformed is prevented.

Moreover, since a message is displayed upon the liquid crystal displayunit 104, accordingly the user is notified of the fact that projectionhas ended (and the power has gone OFF).

(16) During auto focus (AF) processing, along with the DC motor withinthe lens drive unit 224 being pulse driven (at a frequency of 60 Hz anda duty ratio of 50%) and the LED light source 223 also being pulsedriven at the same frequency and the same duty ratio, also the phases ofthe electrical currents that drive these two devices are displaced fromone another by 180°, so that they are driven in a complementary manner.Due to this, it is possible to keep down the peak consumption ofelectrical current by the projection unit 220, and it is possible tomake the life of the battery 109 longer.

Variant Embodiment #1

The frequencies of the pulse form electrical currents that are suppliedto the LED light source 223 and to the DC motor, while they should bethe same for both of them, may not be 60 Hz; they may be changed asappropriate within the range in which no feeling of flickering isimparted to an observer (for example, they may be 50 Hz). Moreover, itwould also be acceptable for their duty ratios not to be 50%, but thephases of them should be controlled so that the peak value of the driveelectrical current to the LED light source 223 and the peak value of thedrive electrical current to the DC motor do not overlap one another. Forexample, if the duty ratio of the electrical current that is supplied tothe LED light source 223 is 55%, then the duty ratio of the electricalcurrent that is supplied to the DC motor should be made to be 45% orless, so that control may be performed so as to maintain thecomplementary relationship between these two pulse electrical currents.

Variant Embodiment #2

During the AF processing, it would be acceptable to synchronize thedriving of the liquid crystal panel 222 to the drive timing of the LEDlight source 223. In other words, a supply of power in pulse form mayalso be performed to the liquid crystal panel 222 as well, at the sametiming that the pulse form electrical current is supplied to the LEDlight source 223.

Variant Embodiment #3

Although an example has been explained in which, when the DC motor forlens drive is shifting the focusing lens forwards and backwards, acomplementary relationship is maintained between the pulse formelectrical current that is supplied to the LED light source 223 and thepulse form electrical current that is supplied to the DC motor for lensdrive, it would also be acceptable to implement a similar procedure whenthe DC motor for lens drive is shifting the zoom lens forwards andbackwards, as well.

Variant Embodiment #4

The driving with pulse supplies that have the above describedcomplementary relationship, apart from being applied between the LEDlight source 223 and the DC motor for lens drive, may also be appliedbetween the LED light source 223 and the liquid crystal display unit104, between the LED light source 223 and the external interface (I/F)107, between the LED light source 223 and a circuit that performs accessto the recording medium, or the like, as appropriate. Moreover, in thecase of a flash light emission device that uses an electrical dischargetype light source such as a xenon lamp or the like being housedinternally to the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10,driving with pulse supplies having a complementary relationship may alsobe performed between a charging circuit for a main capacitor for flashlight emission and the LED light source 223.

Variant Embodiment #5

It would also be acceptable, before stopping the projection (in the stepS88), to superimpose upon the projected image a message that givesadvance notice of the stoppage of projection, and to perform stopping ofthe projection after a predetermined time period (for example 1 minute)has elapsed from the start of this superimposition.

Variant Embodiment #6

It would also be acceptable to arrange for the brightness detection (inthe step S81) to be performed based upon the image capture signal fromthe image-capturing unit 120. In this case, along with the CPU 101commanding the photography control circuit 124 to turn theimage-capturing unit ON, it would also acquire brightness informationfrom the image signal that is captured by the image-capturing unit 120(i.e. from the signal that corresponds to the photographic subject otherthan the screen in the captured image).

Variant Embodiment #7

It would also be acceptable for the external interface (I/F) 107 to becable communication via, for example, a USB cable, or to be wirelesscommunication that is performed via a wireless transmission andreception device.

Variant Embodiment #8

FIG. 9 is a figure showing an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10A according to a variant embodiment #8 as seen from thefront. To structural elements that are common with FIG. 1 the samereference symbols are affixed, and explanation thereof will becurtailed. In this variant embodiment, the portion of the camera chassisthat contains the projection module is made so as to be slidable in thehorizontal direction, and, during the projection mode, it is slid and isshifted to the position shown in FIG. 9. Drive electrical current and soon is supplied to the LED 223 upon the base plate 251 via a harness, notshown in the figures, from the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10A to the projection module.

When the above described portion of the chassis is slid and shifted, amodule guide surface 25 upon the main chassis is exposed, so that theheat dissipation area is enlarged. Moreover, rails are formed upon thismodule guide surface 25 that fit into the portion of the camera chassisthat slides and shifts, so that its surface area is wider, as comparedwith the case in which it is formed as a plane surface. Due to theserails, this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10A becomesable easily to dissipate heat that is conducted from the projectionmodule to the camera chassis.

On the other hand, on the projection module that has been slid andshifted, its base plate 251 is exposed at its rear surface side, so thatit becomes easy for heat which is generated from the LED light source223 to be dissipated. Moreover, it is made so as to fit into the railsupon the module guide surface 25, and a fitting member 252 c that hasgood thermal conductivity is joined to the bottom of the lid member 252.Since the surface area of this fitting member 252 c is also wider ascompared to the case in which it is formed as planar, accordingly italso becomes easy to perform dissipation of heat on the projectionmodule side as well.

Embodiment Two

The details of the arrangement of the optical system of a projectionunit 220 according to a second embodiment will now be explained withreference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is a plan view as seen from aboveof this optical system of the projection unit 220, and FIG. 11 is anelevation view of the optical system of FIG. 10 as seen from the front.In this second embodiment, the projected light and the auxiliaryphotographic light are emitted from a common optical system. Whenemitting the projected light, the liquid crystal panel 222 is driven soas to create an optical image. However, when emitting the auxiliaryphotographic light, the transmittivity of the liquid crystal layer ofthe liquid crystal panel 222 is controlled according to the amount ofillumination light that is required.

According to FIGS. 10 and 11, as compared with the first embodiment (ofFIGS. 4 and 5), the outstanding differences are that the mirror M1 andthe illumination optical system 229 are omitted, and that, instead ofthe cooling block 230, a heat dissipation (radiation) member 270 isprovided. To structural elements that are common with the firstembodiment, common reference symbols are appended, and explanationthereof is curtailed.

An LED 223 is mounted upon an aluminum base plate 261 that is made byprocessing a thin rectangular metallic plate by bending it into the formof a letter “L”. The structure is such that the light from the LED 223proceeds in the rightward direction without the use of any mirror. Thefeatures that a condensing optical system 226 and a PBS block 228 areadhered upon the base plate 261 are the same as in the first embodiment.

A lid member 262 that is made by subjecting an aluminum plate to sheetmetal bending processing is disposed so as to cover over the variousmembers upon the base plate 261 described above. An aperture 262 a isprovided in the lid member 262, and a projection optical system 221(that also serves as the illumination optical system) is disposed inthis aperture 262 a.

The heat dissipation member 270 is surface joined with good thermalconductivity upon the surface of the aluminum base plate 261 opposite toits surface upon which the LED light source 223 is mounted. The heatdissipation member 270 may, for example, be made by forming fins uponone portion of a cube shaped aluminum block by a cutting process.

FIG. 12 is a side view of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10B to which the projection module explained with FIGS. 10 and11 is set. FIG. 12( a) is a figure showing the projection unit 220 inits state of being shifted to its housed position, while FIG. 12( b) isa figure showing the projection unit 220 in its state of being shifted(i.e. popped up) to its usage position.

With this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10B, when theprojection unit 220 is popped up to its usage position in the state withthe photographic mode started (i.e. with the main switch ON), thenemission of auxiliary photographic light becomes possible. Moreover,with this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10B, when theprojection unit 220 is popped up to its usage position in the state withthe main switch OFF, then the projection mode is started and emission ofprojected light becomes possible. In order to detect the storage stateor the popped up state of the projection unit 220, a micro switch notshown in the figures that operates together with shifting of theprojection unit 220 is housed internally in this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10B.

In FIG. 12( b), the projection module that has been popped up into theusage position emits projected light from a higher position, as comparedwhen it has not been popped up. A bellows 271 that is made from amaterial that has good thermal conductivity is provided to the heatdissipation member 270, and heat is transmitted to the chassis of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10B via this bellows 271.Due to this, the heat which is generated by the projection module isdissipated, not only by the heat dissipation member 270, but also fromthe bellows 270 and the camera chassis.

According to the second embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) Since the members (the LED light source 223 and the heat dissipationmember 270) whose temperatures are elevated are disposed upon the pop upunit at the central upper portion of the body of this electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10B, accordingly it is possible to provide astructure in which the user cannot easily touch the spots whosetemperature is elevated.

(2) Since the exposed area is wider when the projection module is poppedup into its usage position as compared to when it is not popped up,accordingly it is possible to widen the heat dissipation area. Moreover,since the heat is conducted to the camera chassis via the bellows 271that has good thermal conductivity, accordingly the heat is dissipatedwith good efficiency. Since the bellows 271 conducts heat when theprojection unit 220 is in its usage position and also when it is in itshoused position, accordingly it is possible to continue the dissipationof heat, even when directly after the termination of projection theprojection unit is immediately shifted to its housed position.

(3) By popping up the projection module into its usage position, it ispossible to enhance the height from the surface upon which thiselectronic camera with incorporated projector 10B is placed or set (suchas a table not shown in the figures or the like) to the projectionoptical system. And, by making the position of the projection opticalsystem 221 (the outlet through that the projected ray bundle is emitted)higher, the fear becomes less that a portion of the projected ray bundlewill be interfered with by the placing surface.

(4) Since the projection optical system 221 also serves as theillumination optical system, accordingly it is possible to reduce thecost, as compared with the case in which these optical systems areprovided separately.

Variant Embodiment #9

It would also be acceptable to provide a structure in which the heatdissipation member 270 and the LED light source 223 of the projectionmodule are separated from the condensing optical system 226 and the PBSblock 228. FIG. 13 consists of side views of an electronic camera withincorporated projector 10C equipped with a projection module accordingto a variant embodiment #9: FIG. 13( a) is a figure showing a state inwhich a projection unit 220 thereof is shifted to a housed position,while FIG. 13( b) is a figure showing a state in which the projectionunit 220 is shifted (i.e. is popped up) to a usage position.

In FIG. 13( b), the condensing optical system 226 and the PBS block 228and so on are included within the pop up unit. Those members whosetemperatures are elevated (the LED light source 223 and the heatdissipation member 270) are not included within the pop up unit, but arekept to the central upper portion of the body of the electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10C, so that they are disposed in locationsat which the user cannot easily touch them.

Heat is conducted between the heat dissipation member 270 and themetallic back panel member 104B of the liquid crystal display unit 104(see FIG. 3) via a heat conduction member 272. As a result it ispossible to dissipate the heat with good efficiency, not only from theheat dissipation member 270, but also from the metallic back panelmember 104B.

Variant Embodiment #10

It would also be acceptable to provide a structure in which theprojection optical system of the projection module is separated from theother members. FIG. 14 consists of side views of an electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10D equipped with a projection moduleaccording to a variant embodiment #10: FIG. 14( a) is a figure showing astate in which a projection unit 220 thereof is shifted to a housedposition, while FIG. 14( b) is a figure showing a state in which theprojection unit 220 is shifted to a usage position.

In FIG. 14( b), a mirror M2 that also serves for the projection opticalsystem is included in the pop up unit. By making the position of themirror M2 (in other words, the emission aperture for the projected raybundle) high in the popped up states the fear becomes less than aportion of the projected ray bundle will be interfered with by the lensbarrel or the mounting surface. Those members whose temperatures areelevated (the LED light source 223 and the cooling block 230 (the sameas in the first embodiment) and so on) are not included within the popup unit, but are kept to the central upper portion of the body of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10C, so that they aredisposed in locations at which the user cannot easily touch them.

In the popped up state, the cooling air flows more easily as compared tothe non popped up state. The cooling block takes in air from a ventaperture (not shown in the figures) that is provided in the frontsurface of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10D. Thecooling air flow changes its path of progression in the upward directionwhile performing cooling, as shown by the arrow sign in the figure, andis exhausted from a vent aperture (not shown in the figures) that isprovided in the upper surface of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10D. This vent aperture is provided so as to be exposed by thepopping up of the projection unit 220.

Embodiment Three

FIG. 15 is an elevation view of an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10E equipped with the projection module explained in FIGS. 10and 11. According to FIG. 15, the projection unit 220 (shown by thebroken line) is contained in an end portion of the camera chassis thatis positioned at the opposite side from the release button 14 (i.e. fromthe grip portion G), with the photographic lens 11 between them, andthis chassis end portion (the portion that contains the projection unit220) is covered over by a slide cover 26.

FIG. 16 consists of figures showing the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10E of FIG. 15 in a state with its projectionunit made ready for use: FIG. 16( a) is a plan view thereof, FIG. 16( b)is an elevation view thereof, and FIG. 16( c) is a bottom view thereof.By the slide cover 26 being pulled out in the rightward direction fromits storage state shown in FIG. 15, the end portion of the camerachassis (body) that was covered over by the slide cover 26 is exposed,and the projection optical system 221 appears at the front of thisexposed chassis end portion.

When, in the state of this electronic camera with incorporated projector10E in which the photographic mode is started (i.e. with its main switchON), the slide cover 26 is actuated to be pulled out, then emission ofauxiliary light from the projection unit 220 is made possible.Furthermore when, in the state of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10E in which the main switch is OFF, the slidecover 26 is actuated to be pulled out, then the projection mode isstarted and emission of projected light from the projection unit 220 ismade possible. In order to detect whether the slide cover 26 is in itsstorage state or its pulled out state, a micro switch is internallyprovided in this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10E, andis operated to be turned ON and OFF together with shifting of the slidecover 26.

A space S within the slide cover 26 that has been pulled out is createdand expands, and becomes a passage for the cooling air flow. In order toprovide a flow conduit for the cooling air flow, vent apertures areprovided on at least two opposing surfaces of the space S. According toFIG. 16, the cooling air flow enters into within the slide cover 26 fromslits 26 b that are provided in the bottom surface of the slide cover 26and from slits 26 f that are provided in the lower front portion of theslide cover 26, progresses upwards within the slide cover 26, and thenis discharged from slits 26 t that are provided upon the upper surfaceof the slide cover 26.

The site upon the side surface of the chassis of the electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10E that is marked with black in FIG. 16( b)shows a location whose temperature is particularly elevated by the heatthat is generated by the projection unit 220. The heat dissipationmember 270 to which is conducted the heat generated by the LED lightsource 223 is joined to this side of the chassis from its interior. Inorder, with this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10E, todissipate (radiate) heat to the exterior of the above described chassisside surface, fins 27 are provided on the exterior of this chassis sidesurface, so that the advantageous effect of cooling by the cooling airflow that progresses upwards within the slide cover 26 is enhanced.

Moreover, in order to increase the flow speed when the cooling air flowpasses past the neighborhood of the above described site whosetemperature is elevated, in the space S that is created by expansion, anelastic member 30 is provided within the slide cover 26 so as to squeezedown a space 30 a in the neighborhood of this site whose temperature iselevated. This elastic member 30 is made from a plastic member or a thinmetallic plate or the like, and is made so that, although when the slidecover 26 is in its storage state as shown in FIG. 15 the elastic member30 is pressed and compressed, when the slide cover 26 is in its pulledout state as shown in FIG. 16( b), the elastic member expands to theshape shown by the broken line.

According to the third embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) It is arranged to provide the members whose temperatures areelevated (i.e. the LED light source 223 and the heat dissipation member270) at the end body portion of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10E that is positioned at the opposite side from the releasebutton 14 (and the grip portion G) (i.e. on the right side as one facesthe camera front surface), and so as to contact the side surface of thecamera chassis from the interior of the chassis, and moreover to coverover the outside of this chassis side surface with the slide cover 26.Due to this, it is possible to provided a structure in which the usercannot easily touch the spots whose temperatures are elevated.

(2) Since it is arranged for the slide cover 26 to be capable of slidingbetween a storage state and a pulled out state, and since it is arrangedfor the slide cover 26, in its storage state, to cover over theprojection optical system 221, accordingly it is possible to use thecover also as a protection member for the projection optical system 221.

(3) Along with making it possible for the projection unit 220 to emitlight with the slide cover 26 in its pulled out state, also the space Sis defined within the slide cover 26 that has been pulled out, therebyensuring a flow conduit for the cooling air flow. Due to this, it ispossible to provide a structure in which the user cannot easily touchthe spots whose temperatures are elevated. Moreover since, in additionto the slits 26 b in the bottom surface of the slide cover 26, the slits26 f are also provided in the front lower portion of the slide cover 26,accordingly it is still possible to guarantee a proper flow path for thecooling air flow, even when this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10E is set or mounted upon a flat surface.

(4) This electronic camera with incorporated projector 10E is providedwith the fins 27 upon the outer side of the above described side surfaceof its chassis, in order to dissipate heat from the outer surface ofthis side of the chassis to the space S within the slide cover 26.Moreover, since the elastic member 30 is provided within the slide cover26 so as to squeeze down the space 30 a in the neighborhood of a spotwhose temperature is elevated, in order to elevate the flow speed of thecooling air flow when it passes over the above described spot whosetemperature is elevated, accordingly it is possible to enhance theadvantageous effects for heat dissipation.

(5) If, with the exception of the slide cover 26, the camera chassis ismade to be waterproof, then it is possible to maintain the waterproofstate of the interior of the camera chassis, irrespective of the stateof shifting of the slide cover 26.

Although in the above explanation an example was described in which thebottom surface slits 26 b in the slide cover 26 and the slits 26 f inthe lower front portion of the slide cover 26 were provided separately,it would also be acceptable to provide a structure in which slits wereprovided in the lower portion of the side surface of the slide cover 26,or in the lower portion of its rear surface.

Variant Embodiment #11

Instead of pulling out a cover, it would also be acceptable to provide astructure in which a portion that contains the projection unit inside acover is pulled out. FIG. 17 is an elevation view of an electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10F according to a variant embodiment#11. According to FIG. 17, a projector unit 28 that contains aprojection unit 220 (shown by the broken line) is stored in the endportion of the body of this electronic camera (i.e. in its right sideportion as one faces its front surface).

FIG. 18 consists of figures showing the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10F of FIG. 17 in a state with its projectionunit 220 made ready for use: FIG. 18( a) is a plan view thereof, FIG.18( b) is an elevation view thereof, and FIG. 18( c) is a bottom viewthereof. By the projector unit 28 being pulled out in the rightwardsdirection from its storage state shown in FIG. 17, the projector unit 28that was covered over by the camera body is exposed, and the projectionoptical system 221 appears at the front of the projector unit 28 thathas been exposed.

With this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10F, when theprojector unit 28 is actuated by being pulled out in the state with themain switch OFF, then the projection mode is started and emission ofprojected light from the projection unit 220 is made possible. Moreover,with this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10F, when theprojector unit 28 is actuated by being pulled out in the state in whichthe photographic mode is started (i.e. when the main switch is ON), thenemission of auxiliary photographic light from the projection unit 220 ismade possible. In order to detect whether the projector unit 28 is inits storage state or its pulled out state, a micro switch is internallyprovided in this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10F, andis operated to be turned ON and OFF together with shifting of theprojector unit 28.

When the projector unit 28 has been pulled out, a space S within thecamera chassis is created and expands, and becomes a passage for thecooling air flow. In order to provide a flow conduit for the cooling airflow, vent apertures are provided on at least two opposing surfaces ofthe space S. According to FIG. 18, the cooling air flow enters intowithin the camera chassis from slits 26 b that are provided in thebottom surface of the chassis end portion and from slits 26 f that areprovided in the lower front portion of the chassis end portion,progresses upwards within the camera-chassis, and then is dischargedfrom slits 26 t that are provided upon the upper surface of the chassisend portion.

The site upon the side surface of the projector unit 28 that is markedwith black in FIG. 18( b) shows a location whose temperature isparticularly elevated by the heat that is generated by the projectionunit 220. The heat dissipation member 270 to which is conducted the heatgenerated by the LED light source 223 is joined to this side of theprojector unit 28 from its interior. In order, with this electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10F, to dissipate heat to theexterior of the above described side surface of the projector unit 28,fins 27 are provided on the exterior side surface of the projector unit,so that the advantageous effect of cooling by the cooling air flow thatprogresses upwards within the camera chassis is enhanced.

Moreover, in order to increase the flow speed when the cooling air flowpasses past the neighborhood of the above described site whosetemperature is elevated, in the space S that is created by expansion, anelastic member 30 is provided within the camera chassis so as to squeezedown a space 30 a in the neighborhood of this site whose temperature iselevated. This elastic member 30 is made so that, although when theprojector unit 28 is in its storage state as shown in FIG. 17 theelastic member 30 is pressed and compressed, when the projector unit 28is in its pulled out state as shown in FIG. 18( b), the elastic memberexpands to the shape shown by the broken line.

Variant Embodiment #12

Although, with the third embodiment and the variant embodiment, it isarranged to create the space S that allows passage of the cooling airflow by pulling out, respectively, the slide cover 26 and the projectorunit 28, it would also be acceptable to provide structures in which theywere fixed always in the pulled out state, so as always to ensure theexistence of such a heat dissipation space.

Variant Embodiment #13

With the electronic cameras 10 with incorporated projectors shown inFIGS. 15 through 18, the height of the space S that was the passage forthe cooling air flow was the same as the height of the main body of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10. In this case, when theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10 is put down in astanding state, it is difficult for the cooling air flow to be taken infrom the bottom surface of the space S. Due to this, the slits 26 f areprovided in the lower front portion of the space S. However, in thisvariant embodiment, in order to take in the cooling air flowefficiently, a construction is employed in which the bottom surface ofthe space S comes to be raised up a little above the bottom surface ofthe main body of the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10.If this type of construction is employed, then, even if the camera isput down in a standing state, it is still easy to take in the coolingair flow from its bottom surface, since a space is present below thespace S. It should be understood that, if the space S is made short,then the shape of the portion of the main body of the electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10 in which the projection unit 220 isdisposed may either be made shorter to match the space S, or may not bemade shorter; either alternative is acceptable.

Embodiment Four

FIG. 19 is a figure showing an electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10K to which a projection module as explained in FIGS. 10 and11 is mounted, as seen from the front. The photographic optical system121 of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10K is abending type optical system in which a photographic subject ray bundlethat is incident from the front surface of the camera body is bentaround within the camera and is conducted to an image sensor 122. Byemploying this type of bending type optical system, a structure isprovided in which the distance between the front surface and the rearsurface of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10K ismade thin.

According to FIG. 19, an image-capturing unit 120 (shown by the brokenline) is arranged as vertically oriented on the right side of the cameraas one faces it. In concrete terms, a photographic lens 11 (121) isdisposed at the camera upper right front surface, and the image sensor122 is disposed towards its right bottom surface. The projection unit220 (shown by the broken line) is disposed side by side with theimage-capturing unit 120, at the upper center edge portion of the centerof the body of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10K(i.e. at its center in its left to right direction). The optical systemof the projection unit 220 is arranged horizontally in the longitudinaldirection, and its members whose temperatures become elevated (i.e. theLED light source 223 and the heat dissipation member 270) are positionedat the upper edge body portion, more toward the center in the left andright direction than the projection optical system 221. The releasebutton 14 is disposed at the upper left edge portion of the body of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10K.

According to the fourth embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) Even in the case of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10K that is equipped with the photographic optical system 121of the bending type, since the members (i.e. the LED light source 223and the heat dissipation member 270) whose temperatures are elevated aredisposed at the upper center edge portion of the body of the camera,accordingly it is possible to provide a structure with which, if theuser grasps the camera body and puts his finger upon the release button14, it is difficult for him to touch the spots whose temperatures areelevated.

(2) Since the heat dissipation member 270 is disposed at the upper edgeportion of the camera body, accordingly, by providing a heat dissipationaperture to the chassis, it is possible further to enhance theadvantageous effect for heat dissipation.

Variant Embodiment #14

FIG. 20 is a figure for explanation of another electronic camera withincorporated projector 10L that has a photographic optical system 121 ofthe bending type. In FIG. 20, the feature that the image-capturing unit120 (shown by the broken line) is arranged as vertically oriented at theright side of the camera as one faces it, is the same as in the case ofFIG. 19. The projection unit 220 (shown by the broken line) is disposedside by side with the image-capturing unit 120 at the center portion ofthe body of the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10L (itscenter in the left and right direction). The optical system of theprojection unit 220 is arranged with its longitudinal directionvertical, and its members whose temperatures become elevated (i.e. theLED light source 223 and the heat dissipation member 270) are positionedat the central portion of the camera body, more towards its center thanthe projection optical system 221.

It should be understood that, if a flash light emission device that usesa light source of the electrical discharge type such as a xenon lamp orthe like is housed internally to this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10L, then a light emission window 35 is disposedside by side with the projection optical system 221. The position ofthis light emission window 35 is separated from the photographic lens 11(121), and it may be positioned where it is difficult for the user toput his finger upon it.

According to this variant embodiment #14, since the members whosetemperatures become elevated (the LED light source 223 and the heatdissipation member 270) are disposed at the central portion of the bodyof this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10L that isequipped with a photographic optical system 121 of the bending type,accordingly it is possible to provide a structure with which, if theuser grasps the camera body and applies his finger to the release button14, it is difficult for him to touch any spot of which the temperatureis elevated.

Variant Embodiment #15

FIG. 21 is a figure for explanation of another electronic camera withincorporated projector 10M that is equipped with a photographic opticalsystem 121 of the bending type. According to FIG. 21, theimage-capturing unit 120 (shown by the broken line) is arranged with itslong side horizontal in the central portion (the center in the left andright direction) of the body of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10M. In concrete terms, the photographic lens 11 (121) isdisposed in the center of the front surface, while the image sensor 122is disposed towards the left of the front surface. The projection unit220 (shown by the broken line) is disposed at the upper central edgeportion of the body of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10M. The optical system of the projection unit 220 is arrangedhorizontally in the longitudinal direction, and the members thereofwhose temperatures are elevated (i.e. the LED light source 223 and theheat dissipation member 270) are positioned on the upper edge portion ofthe body, towards its center in the left and right direction.

According to this variant embodiment #15, since the members whosetemperatures are elevated (i.e. the LED light source 223 and the heatdissipation member 270) are disposed at the center of the upper edgeportion of the body of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10M that is equipped with the photographic optical system 121of the bending type, accordingly it is possible to provide a structurewith which, if the user grasps the camera body and places his fingerupon the release button 14, it is difficult for him to touch the spotswhose temperature becomes elevated.

Variant Embodiment #16

FIG. 22 is a figure for explanation of another electronic camera withincorporated projector 10N that is equipped with a photographic opticalsystem 121 of the bending type. In FIG. 22, the feature that theimage-capturing unit 120 (shown by the broken line) is arranged with itslong side horizontal at the central portion of the body (i.e. at thecentral portion in the left and right direction) of this electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10N, is the same as in FIG. 21.However, the projection unit 220 (shown by the broken line) is disposedin the side edge portion of the body of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10N. The optical system of the projection unit220 is arranged with its longitudinal direction vertical, and themembers thereof whose temperatures are elevated (i.e. the LED lightsource 223 and the heat dissipation member 270) are on the body sideedge portion (on the opposite side from the release button 14), and arepositioned towards the center in the upwards and downwards directionfrom the projection optical system 221.

It should be understood that, if a flash light emission device that usesa light source of the electrical discharge type such as a xenon lamp orthe like is housed internally to this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10N, then a light emission window 35A is disposedside by side with the projection optical system 221. The position ofthis light emission window 35A is separated from the photographic lens11 (121), and it may be positioned where it is difficult for the user toput his finger upon it.

According to this variant embodiment #16, since the members whosetemperatures become elevated (the LED light source 223 and the heatdissipation member 270) are disposed at the body side edge portion ofthe body of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10N thatis equipped with a photographic optical system 121 of the bending type,accordingly it is possible to provide a structure with which, if theuser grasps the camera body and applies his finger to the release button14, it is difficult for him to touch any spot of which the temperatureis elevated.

In the fourth embodiment and the variant embodiments 14 through 16explained above, according to the position of disposition of theprojection unit 220, it is desirable to dispose the circuits thatprocess the projection image signal (for example, the path for the imagedata that is sent from the CPU 101 to the projection control circuit225, and the signal processing circuit for that data) in theneighborhood of the projection unit 220. By making the projected imagesignal line short, it is possible to suppress interference between theimage capture signal and so on and other signal lines, and it ispossible to reduce noise superimposed upon the signal.

Embodiment Five

It would also be acceptable to make the direction of projection by theprojection unit 220 and the direction of photography by the photographiclens 11 be different from one another. FIG. 23 consists of figuresshowing an example of an electronic camera with incorporated projector10G to which the projection module explained in FIGS. 10 and 11 ismounted:

FIG. 23( a) is an elevation view thereof, and FIG. 23( b) is a side viewthereof. The electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G shown byway of example in FIG. 23 is of a single lens reflex type, having aphotographic lens 11 installed to a lens mount (not shown in thefigures) on the front of the camera chassis (body). A projection unit220 (shown by the broken lines) is contained within the camera chassis,and a projection optical system 221 is positioned on a side surface ofthe camera chassis that is on the opposite side to the surface where agrip portion G is, with the photographic lens 11 between them. It shouldbe understood that this could also be a camera of a type in which thephotographic lens 11 cannot be detached from the camera chassis.

With this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G, emission ofprojected light is possible in the state in which the projection mode isstarted (when the main switch is ON), while, in the state in which thephotographic mode is started (when the main switch is ON), emission ofprojected light is prohibited.

In FIG. 23( b), heat is conducted between a heat dissipation member 270of the projection unit 220 whose temperature is elevated and a metallicback panel member 104B of the liquid crystal display unit 104 (see FIG.3) via a heat conduction member 272.

This electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G is built so as tobe able to perform projection even in its facing down attitude in whichthe photographic lens 11 is faced downwards. According to FIG. 24, theexternal diameter of a lens cap 11C is made to be quite a lot largerthan the opening diameter of the photographic lens 11, so that thesetting area in the facing down attitude is wider than the openingdiameter area of the photographic lens 11. Due to this, the settingattitude of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G upona planar surface is stable, even if an interchangeable photographic lens11 whose focal length is long is installed thereto.

A CPU 101 of this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10Gdecides, based upon an attitude detection signal from an attitude sensor111, whether the camera is in the setting attitude of FIG. 23 or is inthe setting attitude of FIG. 24. Moreover, the CPU 101 perform rotationof the image data in the memory 102 according to the setting attitudethat has been decided upon, and outputs the image data after thisrotation processing to the projection unit 220.

According to the fifth embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) Since the direction of projection from the projection unit 220 ismade to be the direction of the side surface of the body of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10G, accordingly, even ifa photographic lens 11 whose focal length is long is installed to thefront of the camera body, there is no fear that a portion of theprojected ray bundle will be interfered with by the lens barrel.

(2) Since the direction of projection from the projection unit 220 ismade to be the direction of the side surface of the body, accordingly,if the user grasps the side surface of the body on the side of theprojection unit 220, the projected light will be intercepted by the handof the user. Due to this, during projection, the user is encouraged notto hold the side surface of the body on the side of the projection unit220, and accordingly it is possible to provide a structure in which theuser cannot easily touch the spots whose temperature is elevated.

(3) Since the above described side surface of the body is on theopposite side surface to the side where the grip portion G is located,accordingly it is possible to reduce the fear that, if the user graspsthe side surface of the body, the projected light will be intercepted bythe hand of the user. It should be understood that if it is supposed, asa premise, that projection is performed with the projection unit in thestate in which this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G isset or mounted upon a planar surface, then the projection unit 220 maybe disposed upon any of the body side surfaces, and may project to anyside.

(4) Since the members of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G whose temperature is elevated (i.e. the LED light source223 and the heat dissipation member 270) are disposed so as to contactits chassis side surface from the interior, accordingly it is alsopossible to dissipate heat from the camera chassis to the exterior ofthe chassis as well.

(5) Since it is arranged to conduct heat from the heat dissipationmember 270 to the metallic back panel member 104B via the member 272that has good thermal conductivity, accordingly it is also possible todissipate heat from this metallic back panel member 104B with goodefficiency as well.

(6) Since the protection member (the lens cap 11C), that is built sothat its external diameter area is substantially wider than the aperturediameter area of the photographic lens 11, is fitted to the photographiclens 11, accordingly it is possible to stabilize the setting attitude ofthis electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G in its facingdown attitude in which the photographic lens 11 is faced downward. Dueto this, it becomes possible also to set the camera upon a slopingsurface in a stable manner.

(7) Since it is arranged to detect the camera attitude and to performimage rotation processing, and to perform projection from the projectionunit 220 of the image after this rotation processing, accordingly it ispossible automatically to project an erect image in the correctorientation, even from the above described facing down attitude.

Variant Embodiment #17

In the case of the setting attitude of FIG. 23, when a photographic lens11 is installed whose focal length is long, sometimes the front surfaceside (the photographic lens 11 side) of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G may tilt over. In this case, in order tocorrect for this inclination of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G, the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G is stabilized by using the protection member(a lens cap 11D). FIG. 25 consists of figures showing an example of anelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10G to which a lens cap11D and a photographic lens 11 are installed: FIG. 25( a) is anelevation view, while FIG. 25( b) is a side view.

According to FIG. 25, the center of the external diameter of the lenscap 11D is eccentric, so that it is different from the center of theaperture diameter of the photographic lens 11. By rotating the lens cap11D that is installed upon the photographic lens around the center ofthe photographic lens, the space between the lens barrel of thephotographic lens 11 and the planar surface upon which this electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10G is set may be adjusted.

According to this variant embodiment #17, it is possible to stabilizethe setting attitude of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographic lens 11whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, no portionof the projected ray bundle is interfered with by the lens cap 11D.

Variant Embodiment #18

FIG. 26 consists of figures for explanation of an example of anelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10G, whose inclination iscorrected. FIG. 26( a) is an overall view showing this example of theelectronic camera with incorporated projector 10G that is supported by amemory holder 31, while FIG. 26( b) is a side view thereof.

In FIG. 26( a), the memory holder 31 is installed upon a camera strap34. In FIG. 26( b), the memory holder 31 is shaped as a triangularprism, and a strap aperture 32 is provided as pierced through it in thedirection perpendicular to the drawing paper. This memory holder 31 isinserted between the lens barrel of the photographic lens 11 and theplanar surface upon which the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G is set, with its triangular prism shape being laid down ina state so that, as seen from the side direction, the bottom surface ofits wedge shape can be seen. It should be understood that, in FIG. 26(b), the strap 34 is not shown in the figure. In the vicinity of thestrap aperture 32, there is provided a holder portion 33 that stores astandby memory card 150. The surfaces 31 a and 31 b of the memory holder31 are subjected to roughening processing, so that a non-slip effect isobtained.

According to this variant embodiment #18, it is possible to stabilizethe setting attitude of this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographic lens 11whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, bychanging the depth to which the memory holder 31 is inserted under thephotographic lens 11, it is possible to adjust the gap between the lensbarrel 11 of the photographic lens 11 and the planar surface upon whichthe electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G is set.Furthermore, no portion of the projected ray bundle is interfered withby the memory holder 31.

Instead of the memory holder 31, it would also be acceptable tostabilize the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G by using a lens cap holder that stores a lenscap, or a remote control holder that stores a remote control transmitter(either of which should be formed in a wedge shape).

Moreover, it would also be acceptable to provide a structure in whichthe lens cap is made in a wedge shape, so that the wedge shaped portionof this lens cap could be inserted between the lens barrel of thephotographic lens 11 and the planar surface upon which the electroniccamera with incorporated projector 10G is set. Even further, it wouldalso be acceptable to provide a dedicated wedge shaped member in orderto stabilize the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G. In this case, it would be desirable for thewedge shaped member to be built so that it can be fitted to the camerastrap 34.

Variant Embodiment #19

In order to stabilize the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G, it would also be acceptable to provide astructure that includes a stabilization plate that can be freely pulledout at the bottom surface of the camera body. FIG. 27 is a side viewshowing an example of a horizontal stabilization plate 36 that isprovided at the bottom surface portion of an electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G. In FIG. 27, the horizontal stabilizationplate 36 consists of two thin plate members that are linked together,and is built so as to be capable of being pulled out in the direction ofthe arrow sign, in two stages.

The user pulls the plate out (i.e. opens it up) by the necessary amountin order to stabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camerawith incorporated projector 10G. By doing this, the area of the camerathat is in contact with the setting surface is widened, so that itssetting attitude is stabilized.

If the horizontal stabilization plate 36 is not in use, then thishorizontal stabilization plate 36 is housed (i.e. is closed up) within aslot (shown by the broken line) that is provided along the bottomsurface of the camera body. If it is arranged to transfer heat from theheat dissipation member 270 to this slot portion (i.e. the camerachassis) via a member 272 that has good thermal conductivity, then it ispossible also to dissipate heat with good efficiency from the horizontalstabilization plate 36. It should be understood that the slot portionand the horizontal stabilization plate 36 are connected together with aheat conductive material.

According to the variant embodiment #19 explained above, it is possibleto stabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographiclens 11 whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, itis also possible to dissipate heat from the horizontal stabilizationplate 36, and no portion of the projected ray bundle is interfered withby the horizontal stabilization plate 36.

Variant Embodiment #20

It would also be acceptable to build the horizontal stabilization plateso that it can rotate freely. FIG. 28 is a side view showing an exampleof a horizontal stabilization plate 36A that is rotatably supported by ahinge member (not shown in the figures) so that a straight line withinthe bottom surface of the electronic camera with incorporated projector10G (for example, one side of which bottom surface) constitutes itsrotational axis. In FIG. 28, the horizontal stabilization plate 36A isrotated through 180° in the direction of the arrow sign from its foldedaway state (shown by the broken line). When stabilizing the settingattitude of the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G, theuser opens the horizontal stabilization plate 36A by rotating it. Due tothis, the area of contact between the camera and the planar surface uponwhich it is set is widened, so that its setting attitude is stabilized.

When the horizontal stabilization plate 36A is not being used, thishorizontal stabilization plate 36A is closed by being folded up so as tolie along the bottom surface of the camera body (as shown by the brokenline). If it is arranged to transmit heat from the heat dissipationmember 270 to the bottom surface portion of the camera body via a member272 that has good thermal conductivity, then it is also possible todissipate heat from the horizontal stabilization plate 36 with goodefficiency. It should be understood that it is arranged to conduct heatfrom the camera bottom surface to the horizontal stabilization plate 36Avia the hinge member that supports the horizontal stabilization plate36A.

According to the variant embodiment #20 explained above, it is possibleto stabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographiclens 11 whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, itis also possible to dissipate heat from the horizontal stabilizationplate 36A, and no portion of the projected ray bundle is interfered withby the horizontal stabilization plate 36A.

Variant Embodiment #21

In order to stabilize the setting attitude of the electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G, it would also be acceptable to provide astructure incorporating a stabilization plate on the side surface of thecamera body, that is pulled out freely. FIG. 29 consists of figures forexplanation of an example of a vertical stabilization plate 39B that isprovided upon a side surface portion of an electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G: FIG. 29( a) is a plan view thereof, whileFIG. 29( b) is a side view thereof. In FIGS. 29( a) and 29(b), thevertical stabilization plate 36B consists of two thin plate members thatare linked together, and is built so as to be capable of being pulledout in the direction of the arrow sign, in two stages. The user pullsthe plate out (i.e. opens it up) by the necessary amount in order tostabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G. By doing this the setting attitude of thecamera is stabilized.

If the vertical stabilization plate 36B is not in use, then thisvertical stabilization plate 36B is housed (i.e. is closed up) within aslot (shown by the broken line in FIG. 29( a)) that is provided alongthe side surface of the camera body. If it is arranged to transfer heatfrom the heat dissipation member 270 to this slot portion (i.e. thecamera chassis) via a member not shown in the figure that has goodthermal conductivity, then it is possible also to dissipate heat withgood efficiency from the vertical stabilization plate 36B. It should beunderstood that the slot portion and the vertical stabilization plate36B are connected together with a heat conductive material.

According to the variant embodiment #21 explained above, it is possibleto stabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographiclens 11 whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, itis also possible to dissipate heat from the vertical stabilization plate36B, and no portion of the projected ray bundle is interfered with bythe vertical stabilization plate 36B.

Variant Embodiment #22

With this electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G, it wouldalso be acceptable to provide a structure in which, when the horizontalstabilization plate or the vertical stabilization plate is pulled out(or when it is rotated) while the camera is in an operational mode otherthan the projection mode, such as the photographic mode or the like,then the camera changes over to the projection mode and starts emittingprojected light. It should be understood that, in order to detect thestate in which the horizontal stabilization plate or the verticalstabilization plate is pulled out (or in which it is rotated), a microswitch not shown in the figures is internally incorporated, that isturned ON or OFF together with the above described pulling out (orrotational) actuation. In this case, when the horizontal stabilizationplate or the vertical stabilization plate is stored away, the emissionof projected light is terminated, and the camera changes over from theprojection mode to the most recent operational mode other than theprojection mode.

In variant embodiment #19 through variant embodiment #22, it would alsobe acceptable to arrange, with this electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G, to start operation in the projection mode and start theemission of projected light, when the horizontal stabilization plate orthe vertical stabilization plate is pulled out in the state in which themain switch is OFF. In this case power supply OFF processing would beperformed and projection would be terminated, when the horizontalstabilization plate or the vertical stabilization plate is stored away.

Variant Embodiment #23

It would also be acceptable to provide a structure in which the verticalstabilization plate-rotates freely. FIG. 30 is side views showing anexample of a vertical stabilization plate 37 that is rotatably supportedby a hinge member (not shown in the figures) so that a straight linewithin the side surface of the electronic camera with incorporatedprojector 10G constitutes its rotational axis. FIG. 30( a) shows thefolded away state of the vertical stabilization plate 37, while FIG. 30(b) shows the rotated out state of the vertical stabilization plate 37.

The vertical stabilization plate 37 of this variant embodiment #23 alsoserves as a lid member that closes up an opening portion of the chassisof the camera. A connector or the like that is included in theprojection optical system 221 and the external interface (I/F) 107 isdisposed in this opening portion, and, in the state in which thevertical stabilization plate 37 is folded away (see FIG. 30( a)), thisprojection optical system 221 and so on is protected by the verticalstabilization plate 37. However, when the vertical stabilization plate37 is rotated through 180° from its folded away state, then, as shown inFIG. 30( b), the vertical stabilization plate 37 stabilizes the settingattitude of the electronic camera with incorporated projector 10G.

If it is arranged to transfer heat from the heat dissipation member 270to the side surface portion of the camera body via a member that hasgood thermal conductivity, then it is possible also to dissipate heatwith good efficiency from the vertical stabilization plate 37. It shouldbe understood that it is arranged for heat to be conducted from the sidesurface of the camera body to the vertical stabilization plate 37 viathe hinge member that supports the vertical stabilization plate 37.

According to the variant embodiment #23 explained above, it is possibleto stabilize the setting attitude of this electronic camera withincorporated projector 10G upon a planar surface, even if a photographiclens 11 whose focal length is long is fitted to the camera. Moreover, itis also possible to dissipate heat from the vertical stabilization plate37, and no portion of the projected ray bundle is interfered with by thevertical stabilization plate 37. Furthermore since it is also arrangedfor the vertical stabilization plate 37, in its folded away state, toserve as a lid member that protects the connectors and so on of theprojection optical system 221 and the external interface (I/F) 107 andso on, accordingly it is possible to reduce the number of components, ascompared to providing a lid member and the vertical stabilization plateseparately. It should be understood that it would also be acceptable toprovide a structure in which only the projection optical system 221 wasdisposed in the opening portion of the camera chassis, or only theexternal interface (I/F) 107 was disposed there. Moreover, it would alsobe acceptable to make it possible to start the projection mode of thiselectronic camera with incorporated projector 10G and the emission ofprojected light, by the vertical stabilization plate 37 being rotatedthrough 180°; in other words, it would be acceptable to employ thevertical stabilization plate 37 as a switch for projection.

Embodiment Six

A camera system is made up of a camera body with interchangeablephotographic lens, and a projector that can be installed to the lensmount of the camera body. FIG. 31 is a block diagram for explanation ofthe circuit structure of such a camera system. In FIG. 31, to structuralelements that are common with FIG. 3, common reference symbols areappended, and explanation thereof is curtailed.

This electronic camera 10H is, for example, a single lens reflex typeelectronic camera. As compared with the circuit structure explained withthe aid of FIG. 3, the differences are the feature that the lens driveunit and the lens barrel retraction mechanism are omitted, and thefeature that a lens mount 110 is added. When a conventional photographiclens (not shown in the figures) is mounted to the lens mount 110, a CPU101 performs communication with a CPU on the photographic lens side viaa communication terminal that is provided to the lens mount 110. And thephotographic camera 10H captures an image of the photographic subjectupon an image sensor 112 with the photographic lens.

When a projector 50 is installed upon the lens mount 110, the CPU 101performs communication with a CPU 201 on the side of the projector 50via the communication terminal that is provided to the lens mount 110.In this case the electronic camera 10H does not perform photography, butcauses the projector 50 to perform projection.

In FIG. 31, the communication lines between the control terminals areshown as a control line (Control I/F) and a data line (Data I/F). Thecontents that the CPU 101 transmits to the photographic lens are, forexample, a shift amount for the focus optical system, a shift direction,and a shift start command. The contents that the CPU 101 transmits tothe projector 50 are, for example, commands to start projection and tostop projection, and contents data to be projected and the like. Itshould be understood that it would also be possible for power to besupplied from the electronic camera 10H to the photographic lens via apower supply terminal provided to the lens mount 110.

In addition to a fitting portion 210 that fits into the lens mount 110,the projector 50 includes a projection unit 220, a CPU 201, an externalinterface (I/F) 202, a power supply circuit 203, a memory 205, actuationmembers 206, and a temperature sensor 207. Moreover, a battery 204 isloaded into a battery holder not shown in the figure.

Based upon a control program, the CPU 201 performs control of projectionoperation by performing predetermined calculations and the like usingsignals that are inputted from various parts that make up the projector50, and by sending control signals to various parts of the projector 50.It should be understood that the control program is stored in anon-volatile memory not shown in the figures, provided within the CPU201.

The memory 205 is used as a working memory for the CPU 201. Theactuation members 206 send actuation signals to the CPU 201 according tothe details of actuation of the various members. The power supplycircuit 203 is turned ON and OFF by commands from the CPU 201, and, whenit is ON, converts the voltage from the battery 204 to the voltagesrequired by the various circuits, thereby supplying electrical power tovarious parts of the projector 50.

In order for a replay image to be projected with the projection unit 220according to a signal that is transmitted from an external device, theexternal interface (I/F) 202 converts the received signal into imagedata, and sends the image data after conversion to the CPU 201. Thetemperature sensor 207 is disposed in the neighborhood of the projectionunit 220, and sends a temperature detection signal to the CPU 201. Basedupon this temperature detection signal, the CPU 201 calculates theinternal temperature in the neighborhood of the projection unit 220.

FIG. 32 consists of figures showing the state in which the projector 50,to which the projection module explained in FIGS. 10 and 11 is mounted,is installed to the electronic camera 10H: FIG. 32( a) is an elevationview, while FIG. 32( b) is a side view. According to FIGS. 32( a) and32(b), the projection module is arranged with its longitudinal directionhorizontal, and with the line CP that passes through the center of theprojection optical system being offset above the line CL that passesthrough the center of the lens barrel of the projector 50. Although theprojection unit 220 projects to the interior of the electronic camera10H, it is disposed in a position in which it does not interfere withthe mirror 131. It should be understood that since, if the mirror 131moves in this state, there is a danger of damaging the mirror 131,accordingly movement of the mirror 131 is prohibited in the state inwhich the projector 50 is installed to the electronic camera 10H.

A focus ring 51 and a zoom ring 52 are provided to the lens barrel ofthe projector 50. The structure is such that, when the zoom ring 52 isactuated by being rotated, then a zoom lens 221 b that is incorporatedin the projection optical system 221 is shifted forwards or backwardsalong the direction of the optical axis, according to the amount of thisactuation. Moreover, the structure is such that, when the focus ring 51is actuated by being rotated, then a focus lens 221 a that isincorporated in the projection optical system 221 is shifted forwards orbackwards along the direction of the optical axis, according to theamount of this actuation. The projector 50 may also be capable of autofocusing, and, in this case, auto focus may be performed by disposing aphotographic unit for auto-focusing or a range-finding sensor within theprojector 50, or within the electronic camera 10H. It should beunderstood that, although these may be driven electrically, they mayalso be directly driven mechanically by actuation of the zoom ring orthe focus ring.

The length HB from the fitting portion 210 of the projector 50 to theexternal edge (the external circumference) of the lens barrel is shorterthan the length HA from the lens mount 110 of the electronic camera 10Hto the bottom surface of the chassis of the camera. Thus, a supportmember 53 is provided at the lower portion of the lens barrel. Theposition of this support member 53 does not change, even when the focusring 51 and the zoom ring 52 are actuated. In the state in which theprojector 50 is installed to the lens mount 110 of the electronic camera10H, the setting attitude upon a planar surface is stabilized by thebottom surface of the electronic camera 10H and by the support member53. Although, in this embodiment, the length from the fitting portion210 to the outer edge of the lens barrel, and the length to the bottomsurface of the camera chassis, have been discussed, in the case of, notthe length from the fitting portion 210, but the length from the centerof the fitting portion 210, a similar relationship holds as well.

<Projection Source: the Source>

According to a command from the CPU 201, the projection unit 220 of theprojector 50 projects contents from any one of the sources “source #1”through “source #3” described below. Each time a source changeoveractuation signal is inputted from an actuation member 206 (or from theelectronic camera 10H), the CPU 201 outputs image data that correspondsto an image to the projection unit 220, so as alternatingly to changeover the projected image between “source #1” and “source #2”. However,if the projector 50 is not installed to the lens mount 110 of theelectronic camera 10H, or if even though the projector 50 is installedto the lens mount 110 of the electronic camera 10H the power supply ofthe electronic camera 10H is OFF, then “source #1” is not selected; and,if no external device is connected to the external interface (I/F) 202,then “source #2” is not selected.

Furthermore, when an actuation signal is inputted from the electroniccamera 10H to which the projector 50 is installed in order to changeoverto chart projection, then the CPU 201 outputs image data to theprojection unit 220 corresponding to “source #3” described below.

Source #1: a replay image from data that has been transmitted from theelectronic camera 10H;

Source #2: a replay image from data that is inputted from the externalinterface (I/F) 202;

Source #3: an image that is a chart for focus adjustment, for example animage consisting of a banded pattern with black lines upon a whiteground.

With the camera system according to this embodiment, the projector 50that is installed to the electronic camera 10H performs projectionoperation while communicating with the electronic camera 10H.

<Processing on the Projector Side>

FIG. 33 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by the CPU 201 of the projector 50. The processing of FIG. 33is started when the main switch (not shown in the figures) of theprojector 50 is actuated to ON.

In a step S201 of FIG. 33, the CPU 201 decides whether or notcommunication is effective. If communication can be performed with theCPU 101 on the side of the electronic camera 10H by using apredetermined communication protocol so that communication is effective,then the CPU 201 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S201 andthe flow of control proceeds to a step S202. On the other hand ifcommunication is not effective, then in this step S201 the CPU 201reaches a negative decision and the flow of control is transferred to astep S212.

If the flow of control is transferred to the step S212, the CPU 201performs normal processing. Normal processing is processing when theprojector 50 is not installed to the electronic camera 10H but is beingused independently, processing when the main switch of the electroniccamera 10 to which the projector 50 is installed is OFF, or processingwhen the projector 50 is installed to a camera that is not endowed withany function of communication with the projector 50.

When performing normal processing, according to an actuation signal thatis inputted from the actuation members 206, the CPU 201 commands theprojection control circuit 225 to turn projection ON and OFF, to changeover the projection source, to perform focus adjustment, or to performzoom adjustment processing. In concrete terms, if an actuation signalfrom a-light source ON/OFF switch (not shown in the figures) has beeninputted, then, depending upon this actuation signal, the CPU 201commands lighting up or turning off of the LED light source 223. If asource changeover actuation signal has been inputted, then, as explainedabove, the image data that is sent to the projection unit 220 is changedover. If communication with the electronic camera 10H has becomeineffective, then the initial image that is projected by the projector50 is made to be a replay image that corresponds to the above described“source #2”.

Furthermore, if an actuation signal for focus adjustment (i.e. anactuation signal due to the focus ring 51) has been inputted, then theCPU 201 sends a focus adjustment signal that corresponds to thisactuation signal to the projection control circuit 225. And, if anactuation signal for zoom adjustment (i.e. an actuation signal due tothe zoom ring 52) has been inputted, then the CPU 201 sends a focusadjustment signal that corresponds to this actuation signal to theprojection control circuit 225. After the CPU 201 has performed normalprocessing in this manner, the flow of control is transferred to a stepS211.

However, if the flow of control has proceeded to the step S202, then theCPU 201 makes a decision as to whether or not projection has beencommanded. If a signal that issues a command related to projection isinputted, then the CPU 201 reaches an affirmative decision in the stepS202 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S203, where as ifno signal that issues a command related to projection is inputted then anegative decision is reached in this step S202 and the flow of controlis transferred to a step S204. A signal that issues a command related toprojection, may be a control signal transmitted from the electroniccamera 10H, or may be an actuation signal from an actuation member 206.

In the step S203, the CPU 201 commands the projection control circuit225 to start projection or to terminate projection, and then the flow ofcontrol proceeds to the step S204. It should be understood that, ifcommunication with the electronic camera 10H becomes effective, then theinitial image that is projected towards the screen (not shown in thefigures) by the projector 50 is made to be a replay image according tothe data that is transmitted from the electronic camera 10H, that is theabove described “source #1”.

In the step S204, the CPU makes a decision as to whether or not acommand has been issued for changing over the source. If indeed a signalhas been inputted that issues a command for changing over the projectionsource, then the CPU 201 reaches an affirmative decision in this stepS204 and the flow of control proceeds to a step S205, where as if nosignal is inputted for issuing a command to change over the projectionsource then a negative decision is reached in this step S204 and theflow of control is transferred to a step S206. Such a signal that issuesa command for changing over the source may be a control signal that istransmitted from the electronic camera 10H, or may be an actuationsignal from an actuation member 206.

In the step S205, the CPU changes over the image data that is sent tothe projection unit 220 according to the signal that has been inputted,and then the flow of control proceeds to the step S206. This image datathat is sent is data corresponding to either “source #1” or “source #2”.

In the step S206, the CPU 201 makes a decision as to whether or not acommand has been issued for zoom adjustment. If a signal is inputtedthat issues a command for zoom adjustment, then the CPU 201 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S206 and the flow of control proceedsto a step S207, where as if no signal has been inputted that issues acommand for zoom adjustment, then a negative decision is reached in thisstep S206 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S208. Such asignal that issues a command for zoom adjustment may be a control signaltransmitted from the electronic camera 10H, or may be an actuationsignal from the zoom ring 52.

In the step S207, the CPU 201 performs zoom adjustment processing. TheCPU 201 sends to the projection control circuit 225 a zoom adjustmentsignal corresponding to the signal that has been inputted, and then theflow of control proceeds to the step S208.

In the step S208, the CPU 201 makes a decision as to whether or not acommand has been issued for focus adjustment. If a signal is inputtedthat issues a command for focus adjustment, then the CPU 201 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S208 and the flow of control proceedsto a step S209, where as if no signal has been inputted that issues acommand for focus adjustment, then a negative decision is reached inthis step S208 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S210.Such a signal that issues a command for focus adjustment may be acontrol signal transmitted from the electronic camera 10H, or may be anactuation signal from the focus ring 51.

In the step S209, the CPU 201 performs zoom adjustment processing.Instead of sending to the projection control circuit 225 a replay imageof the above described “source #1” or “source #2”, the CPU 201 sends thechart image data of the above described “source #3”, and projects thischart image. And the CPU 201 sends to the projection control circuit 225a zoom adjustment signal corresponding to the signal that has beeninputted. When a predetermined time period (for example 5 seconds)elapses without any signal that commands focus adjustment beinginputted, the CPU 201 projects the original replay image instead of thechart image of “source #3”, and then the flow of control proceeds to thestep S210.

In the step S210, the CPU 201 makes a decision as to whether or not anOFF command has been issued. If an OFF actuation signal is inputted fromthe main switch, or an OFF control signal transmitted from theelectronic camera 10H is inputted, then the CPU 201 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S210 and the flow of control proceedsto a step S211, where as if no signal that issues a power supply OFFcommand is inputted then a negative decision is reached in this stepS210 and the flow of control returns to the step S201.

In the step S211 the CPU 201, along with issuing a command to theprojection control circuit 225 to terminate projection, also performspredetermined power supply OFF processing, and then the processing ofFIG. 33 terminates.

<Processing on the Electronic Camera Side>

FIG. 34 is a flow chart for explanation of the flow of processingperformed by program that is executed by the CPU 101 of the electroniccamera 10H. The processing of FIG. 34 is started when the electroniccamera 10H is actuated to change over from the photographic mode to thereplay mode. The replay mode is an operational mode in which image datathat has already been photographed is read out from the memory card 150or the like, and a replay image based upon this image data is displayedupon the liquid crystal display unit 104. In a step S101 of FIG. 34, theCPU 101 issues a command to the photography control circuit 124 to turnthe image-capturing unit OFF, and then the flow of control proceeds to astep S102. Due to this, the image capturing operation by the imagesensor 122 terminates.

In the step S102, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or notcommunication has become effective. The CPU 101 performs communicationusing a predetermined communication protocol with the CPU 201 on theside of the projector 50 that is installed to the lens mount 110 and, ifcommunication has become effective (i.e. if the opposite partner tocommunication is recognized as being a projector 50) an affirmativedecision is reached in this step S102 and the flow of control istransferred to a step S109. However, if communication does not becomeeffective, then the CPU 101 reaches a negative decision in this stepS102 and the flow of control proceeds to a step S103.

If the flow of control reaches the step S103, then the CPU 101 displaysa replay image upon the liquid crystal display unit 104. Thus in thisstep S103 the CPU 101 starts this replay display upon the liquid crystaldisplay unit 104, and then the flow of control proceeds to a step S104.In this case the CPU 101 does not transmit any control signal or data orthe like to any projector 50.

If the flow of control is transferred to the step S109, then the CPU 101projects a replay image with the projector 50. In this step S109 the CPU101, along with transmitting a command (a control signal) for startingprojection, also turns the display upon the liquid crystal display unit104 OFF, and then the flow of control is transferred to the step S104.

In the step S104, the CPU 101 reads out from the memory card 150 theimage data whose recording date and time is the newest, and takes thisimage data that has been read out as the image data for replay. And, ifthe replay image is to be displayed upon the liquid crystal display unit104, then the CPU 101 transmits the image data for replay to the liquidcrystal unit 104, while, if the replay image is to be projected with theprojector 50, then the CPU 101 transmits the image data for replay tothe projector 50. By doing this, a replay image based upon the imagedata sent by the CPU 101 is replay displayed (or projected) upon theliquid crystal display unit 104 or via the projector 50.

In the next step S105, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or notactuation has been performed for frame advance or backup. If anactuation signal has been inputted from an actuation member 103 thatcommands frame advance or backup, then the CPU 101 reaches anaffirmative decision in this step S105 and the flow of control returnsto the step S104, and image data corresponding to the actuation signalis read out from the memory card 150, and this image data that has beenread out is taken as being the image data for replay. On the other hand,if no actuation signal that commands either frame advance or framebackup has been inputted from an actuation member 103, then a negativedecision is reached in this step S105 and the flow of control proceedsto a step S106.

In the step S106, the CPU makes a decision as to whether or sourcechangeover actuation has been performed. If an actuation signal has beeninputted from an actuation member 103 that commands changing over of thesource, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this stepS106 and the flow of control is transferred to a step S111, where as ifno actuation signal has been inputted that commands changing over of thesource, then a negative decision is reached in this step S106 and theflow of control proceeds to a step S107.

In the step S107, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not modechangeover actuation has been performed. If an actuation signal has beeninputted from an actuation member 103 to change over to the photographicmode, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S107and the flow of control proceeds to a step S108. Furthermore, if noactuation signal to change over to the photographic mode has beeninputted, then the CPU 110 reaches a negative decision in this step S107and the flow of control is transferred to a step S110.

In the step S108, if the replay image is being displayed upon the liquidcrystal display unit 104, then the CPU 101 turns the display by theliquid crystal display unit 104 OFF, while, if the replay image is beingprojected with the projector 50, then the CPU 101 turns the projectionby the projector 50 OFF; and then the processing of FIG. 34 terminates.If the image projected by the projector 50 is to be turned OFF, then aprojection end command (a control signal) is transmitted to theprojector 50. It should be understood that, along with this projectionend command, it would also be acceptable to arrange to transmit an OFFcontrol signal that causes power supply OFF processing.

In the step S110, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not theimage data for replay is a recorded image. If the image data for replayis a recorded image that is recorded upon the memory card 150, then theCPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision in this step S110 and the flowof control returns to the step S105, where as if the image data forreplay is an image inputted from the external interface (I/F) 107, thena negative decision is reached in this step S110 and the flow of controlreturns to the step S106.

In the step S111, the CPU 101 changes over the image data for replay,and then the flow of control proceeds to the step S112. In concreteterms, each time actuation to perform changing over of the source isperformed, the CPU 101 changes over between the image data read out fromthe memory card 150, and image data inputted from the external interface(I/F) 107; and then the flow of control proceeds to the step S112.

In the step S112, the CPU 101 makes a decision as to whether or not theimage data to be replayed is a recorded image. If the image data forreplay has been changed over to a recorded image that is recorded uponthe memory card 150, then the CPU 101 reaches an affirmative decision inthis step S112 and the flow of control returns to the step S104 and theimage data is read out from the memory card 150, and this image datathat has been read out is taken as being the image data for replay. Onthe other hand, if the image data for replay has been changed over toimage data inputted from the external interface (I/F) 107, then the CPU101 reaches a negative decision in this step S112 and the flow ofcontrol returns to the step S106. In this case, the decision as toactuation for frame advance or backup is unnecessary.

After taking an affirmative decision in the step S102 of the flow chartdescribed above, and until taking an affirmative decision as to modechangeover actuation in the step S107, the CPU 101 treats a portion ofthe actuation members 103 as actuation members that function differentlyfrom when a conventional photographic lens is installed. For example,when the release button is actuated by itself, it is treated, not as anactuation member for commanding photography, but as an actuation memberfor commanding the projector 50 to change over to projecting an image ofthe chart for focus adjustment of the above described “source #3”.Furthermore, if the release button is actuated along with an actuationmember of the cruciform key type, then this is treated as an actuationmember for commanding the projector 50 to adjust its zoom level. If itis combined with an actuation signal that specifies the rightwardsdirection, then this is treated as a zoom up command, where as if it iscombined with an actuation signal that specifies the leftwardsdirection, then this is treated as a zoom down command.

Even further, if the AF operation button is actuated along with theactuation member of the cruciform key type, then this is treated as anactuation member for commanding the projector 50 to adjust its focus. Ifit is combined with an actuation signal that specifies the rightwardsdirection, then this is treated as a command to focus more closely,where as if it is combined with an actuation signal that specifies theleftwards direction, then this is treated as a command to focus moretowards infinity.

According to the sixth embodiment explained above, the followingbeneficial operational effects are obtained.

(1) Since it is arranged for the projector 50 to be installed to thelens mount 110 of the electronic camera 10H, that is for aninterchangeable lens, and it has a similar cylindrical shape to which ofthe lens barrel of an interchangeable lens, accordingly it is possibleto install the projector 50 to the electronic camera 10H directly,without using any cable or adapter.

(2) Since, when it is installed to the lens mount, the projector 50 isarranged with its long side horizontal, so that the longitudinaldirection of the projection module extends horizontally, accordingly, ascompared with what would be the case if it was arranged in a verticallyoriented configuration, it is difficult for the projector 50 tointerfere with the quick return mirror 131 within the electronic camera10H, and it is possible to insert at least a part of the projectionmodule into the space within the electronic camera 10H. Due to this, itis possible to reduce the size of the projector 50 (in the left andright direction in FIG. 32( a)).

(3) Since, in addition to (2) above, the line CP that passes through thecenter of the projection optical system is offset upwards above the lineCL that passes through the center of the lens barrel of the projector50, accordingly it is possible to insert the projection module even moredeeply into the space within the electronic camera 10H. Due to this, itis possible further to reduce the size of the projector 50 (in the leftand right direction in FIG. 32( a)). Moreover, by raising the positionof the projection optical system, it is possible to reduce the fear thatthe lower edge of the projected ray bundle will be interfered with bythe setting surface, such as a desk or the like.

(4) Since it is arranged to provide the focus ring 51 and the zoom ring52 to the projector 50, and to perform focus adjustment and zoomadjustment for the projection optical system 221 according to theamounts of actuation of these actuation rings, accordingly it ispossible to perform focusing and zooming of the projected image bysimilar rotational actuations as in the case of a normal photographiclens. Due to this, it is possible to provide a camera system whoseconvenience of use is good.

(5) Since it is arranged to make the length HB from the fitting portion210 of the projector 50 to the outer edge of the lens barrel to be lessthan or equal to the length HA from the lens mount 110 of the electroniccamera 10H to the bottom surface of the chassis of the camera,accordingly it is possible, in the state in which the projector 50 isinstalled to the electronic camera 10H, to contact the bottom surface ofthe electronic camera 10H closely against a planar setting surface.Moreover, if the length HB<the length HA, then, by providing the supportmember 53 to the lower portion of the lens barrel of the projector 50,it is possible to prevent the setting attitude tilting towards the sideof the projector 50. As a result it is possible to maintain a stablesetting attitude, even if the electronic camera 10H with the projector50 installed thereto is set upon a sloping surface.

(6) It is arranged for communication to be possible between theelectronic camera 10H and the projector 50, and, if communication withthe electronic camera 10H that is set to the replay mode has becomeeffective, to transmit a command (i.e. a control signal) for startingprojection and data to be replayed from the electronic camera 10H to theprojector 50, and for the projector 50 automatically to project a replayimage corresponding to which data to be replayed. Due to this, it ispossible to omit actuation to turn the liquid crystal display unit 104of the electronic camera 10H to OFF, actuation to turn the LED lightsource 223 of the projector 50 to ON, and actuation to select theprojected image, so that the convenience of use of this camera systembecomes excellent.

(7) From after an affirmative decision has been reached in the stepS102, until an affirmative decision for mode changeover actuation isreached in the step S107, it is arranged to treat a portion of theactuation members 103 as actuation members that have different functionsfrom when a conventional photographic lens is installed. Due to this, itis possible to avoid adding new actuation members related to projectionto the electronic camera 10H.

Variant Embodiment #24

It would also be acceptable to provide a structure in which, if nobattery 204 is loaded into the projector 50, the projector 50 isoperated with a power supply that is supplied from the electronic camera10H to the projector 50 via the lens mount 110.

Variant Embodiment #25

It would also be acceptable to provide a speaker to the projector 50. Inthis case, if audio data is present that corresponds to the data filefor an image to be projected, audio corresponding to this audio data isreplayed from the speaker.

Variant Embodiment #26

It would also be acceptable to provide the projector 50 with a slot fora memory card. In this case, the projector 50 reads out image data froma memory card that is loaded into this slot, and projects a replay imageaccording to this image data that has been read out. Moreover, it wouldalso be acceptable to provide a structure in which, when the projector50 is projecting a replay image according to data that has beentransmitted from the electronic camera 10H, this image data is alsostored upon the memory card. By providing this type of structure themerit is obtained that, when the same data is to be projected twice ormore, the response time until projection is quicker, since it becomesunnecessary to transmit the image data. Furthermore there is theadvantageous aspect that, even when the projector 50 is removed from theelectronic camera 10H and is being operated as a stand-alone projector,it is still possible to perform projection using that image data.

Variant Embodiment #27

It would also be acceptable to provide a structure with which, accordingto the contents set in advance by a menu setting or the like, duringpower supply OFF processing of the electronic camera 10H (including whena timer is OFF), the electronic camera 10H transmits a power supply OFFcommand (i.e. a control signal) to the projector 50. In this case, whenan actuation signal is inputted from an actuation member 103 to issue acommand to turn the power supply OFF, the CPU 101 of the electroniccamera 10H, along with transmitting a power supply OFF control signal tothe projector 50, also performs predetermined power supply OFFprocessing for the electronic camera 10H. Upon receipt of this powersupply OFF command, the CPU 201 of the projector 50 performs terminationof projection from the projection unit 220, and predetermined powersupply OFF processing for the projector 50.

Variant Embodiment #28

Moreover, according to the contents set in advance by a menu setting orthe like, it would also be acceptable to make it possible for theelectronic camera 10H to change over whether power supply is provided,or is not provided, to the projector 50 from the power supply circuit108 of the electronic camera 10H. The projector 50 is built so that, ifthe voltage of the battery 204 has become less than or equal to apredetermined value, the voltage that is supplied from the electroniccamera 10H is used instead of the battery 204. It would also beacceptable to control the projection unit 220 so that, if power is beingsupplied from the electronic camera 10H to the projector 50, then thevalue of the electrical current that is supplied to the LED light source223 is increased above normal, in order for the projected image tobecome brighter.

Variant Embodiment #29

It would also be possible to arrange, when a command for startingprojection (i.e. a control signal) and data for replay have beentransmitted from the electronic camera 10H to the projector 50, and whena replay image according to this data is being projected by theprojector 50, to terminate projection by the projector 50, if a state inwhich no data is being received by the projector 50 from the electroniccamera 10H has continued for a predetermined time period.

Variant Embodiment #30

Although it was arranged for the electronic camera 10H and the projector50 to perform mutual communication and mutual power supply via terminalswithin the lens mount 110 and the fitting portion 210, it would also beacceptable to provide a structure in which the electronic camera 10H andthe projector 50 were connected together via an external connectioncable between their respective external interfaces (I/Fs) 107 and 202,and mutual communication is performed, and power supply is performed,via this connection cable.

Variant Embodiment #31

It would also be acceptable to provide a more compact structure in whichthe focus ring 51 and the zoom ring 52 are omitted from the projector50. FIG. 35 is a figure showing an example of a projector 50A in thiscase. This projector 50A performs zoom adjustment and focus adjustmentwhen it receives a control signal that is transmitted from theelectronic camera 10H. Since, by omitting the actuation rings (51 and52), the camera becomes more compact and lighter in weight, accordingly,in the state in which the projector 50A is installed to the electroniccamera 10H, the center of gravity is positioned towards the side of theelectronic camera 10H. As a result, it is possible to stabilize thesetting attitude upon a plane surface, even without providing thesupport member 53 shown by way of example in FIG. 32.

Variant Embodiment #1 of the Projection Module

A variant embodiment for arrangement of the optical system of theprojection unit 220 will now be explained with reference to FIG. 36.FIG. 36 is a variant embodiment for the arrangement of the opticalsystem shown by way of example in FIG. 4, and shows the optical systemof the projection unit 220 as seen from above. As compared with thefirst embodiment (FIG. 4), the principal difference is that the shiftingrange of the mirror M1 and the position in which the cooling block 230is disposed are different. To structural elements that are common withFIG. 4, common reference symbols are appended, and explanation thereofis curtailed.

In FIG. 36, the LED 223 is implemented upon a rectangular aluminum baseplate 251A (i.e. is mounted upon a pattern that is formed upon aninsulating layer thereupon), that constitutes one plane surface in thelongitudinal direction of a quadrangular prism shape, and the condensingoptical system 226 and the PBS block 228 are adhered to the right of theLED light source 223. A mirror M1 that bends the light from the LED 223towards the direction of the condensing optical system 226, and a mirrorsupport member (not shown in the figures) that shiftably supports thismirror M1, are arranged on the outside of the module. By the supportmember being driven by an actuator, the mirror M1 is shifted between itsposition shown by the broken line and its position shown by the singledotted broken line; this feature is the same as in the case of FIG. 4.

It should be understood that it would also be acceptable for the shiftdirection of the mirror M1 not to be in the direction of the abovedescribed optical path (the left and right direction in FIG. 36),provided that at least the mirror M1 is shifted between a state in whichit is shifted upon the optical path from the LED light source 223, and astate in which it is retracted from upon this optical path. Moreover, itwould also be acceptable to provide a structure in which the mirror M1is rotationally shifted, instead of being parallel shifted as shown inthe figure.

The cooling block 230 is arranged so as to cool the base plate 251A fromthe rear of its surface on which the LED light source 223 isimplemented. The orientation of its intake and exhaust may be, as forexample in FIG. 36, with its intake from above, and its exhaust directedtoward the direction perpendicular to the drawing paper (upwards).

Since, according to the structure of FIG. 36, the gap between the LEDlight source 223 and the condensing optical system 226 is narrower ascompared with the case of FIG. 4, accordingly it is possible to restrictthe size of the optical system in the horizontal direction.

Variant Embodiment #2 of the Projection Module

FIGS. 37( a) and 37(b) are figures showing, as seen from above, anoptical system of a projection unit 220 that is a variant embodiment forthe arrangement of the optical system shown by way of example in FIG.10. FIG. 37( a) shows the case of emitting auxiliary light forphotography, while FIG. 37( b) shows the case of emitting projectedlight. As compared with the second embodiment (of FIG. 10), the featuresof difference are: that the optical member 238 is disposed upon the sideof the surface 228 b of the PBS block 228; that, instead of the heatdissipation member 270, the cooling block 230 is provided; and that, onthe aluminum base plate 261A that is processed by bending, an apertureis provided in a position that is opposed to the surface 228 b of thePBS block 228. To structural elements that are common with FIG. 10,common reference symbols are appended, and explanation thereof iscurtailed.

In FIG. 37, the optical member 238 is supported by a support member notshown in the figures so as to be shiftable along the surface 228 b ofthe PBS block 228. By this support member being driven by an actuator(not shown in the figures), the optical member 238 is parallel shiftedin the left and right directions in FIG. 37.

On the optical member 238, there are formed a region 238 b that istreated by non-reflective processing such as black coloring processingor the like, and a region 238 a in which a ¼ wavelength plate and areflective mirror are joined together (the ¼ wavelength plate isdisposed on the side of the PBS block 228). When auxiliary photographiclight is to be emitted (the photographic mode), the optical member 238is shifted to the position shown in FIG. 37( a). In this state, when apolarized light ray bundle is incident upon the PBS block 228, its Ppolarized light component passes through the PBS block 228 and isconverted by the liquid crystal panel 222 into an S polarized lightcomponent. It should be understood that, in this case, the liquidcrystal panel 222 is put into the state of being illuminated over itsentire surface, so as to make the auxiliary light be as bright aspossible. In other words, the light that is incident upon the liquidcrystal panel 222 is converted by all of its pixels from P polarizedlight into S polarized light. The S polarized light component bundleproduced after conversion is incident for a second time upon the PBSblock 228, and is reflected by the polarized light separator 228 awithin the PBS block 228 and is emitted towards the projection opticalsystem 221. A light polarizing plate 227 is disposed before incidenceupon the PBS block 228. This light polarizing plate 227 is rotated aboutthe optical axis as a center, and the light that is incident upon thePBS block 228 is adjusted to 50% P polarized light and 50% S polarizedlight with respect to the polarization separation surface of the PBSblock 228.

The S polarized light component of the polarized light ray bundle thatis incident upon the PBS block 228 is reflected by the polarized lightseparator 228 a within the PBS block 228, and is incident upon theregion 238 a of the optical member 238. The S polarized light componentis reflected by the mirror within the region 238 a and is incident for asecond time upon the PBS block 228, but, since it passes through the ¼wavelength plate within the region 238 a that is arranged in apredetermined direction for a second time, it is converted into a Ppolarized light component. This P polarized light component passesthrough the PBS block 228, and is emitted towards the projection opticalsystem 221. Since, in this manner, it is arranged also to emit thepolarized light component, that was unused (it was conducted to thenon-reflective-processed surface 228 b and was discarded) with thestructure of FIG. 10 (the same is also true for FIG. 4 and FIG. 36),accordingly it is possible to enhance the amount of auxiliaryphotographic light over the case of FIG. 10. The proportions of thelight incident upon the liquid crystal panel 222 and the region 238 amay be changed by rotating the light polarizing plate 227. It should beunderstood that, since the light that is emitted from the LED lightsource 223 is non-polarized light, accordingly it is possible to makethe proportions of the light incident upon the liquid crystal panel 222and upon the region 238 a be the same, even without providing the lightpolarizing plate 227.

When projected light is to be emitted (in the projection mode), theoptical member 238 is shifted to the position shown in FIG. 37( b). Inthis case a projected image of high product quality is obtained, inwhich stray light is suppressed, since only the P polarized lightcomponent in the polarized light ray bundle that is incident upon thePBS block 228 is used as in FIG. 10 (the S polarized light component isconducted to the non-reflective-processed surface of the region 238 band is discarded) (the same is the case with FIGS. 4 and 36 as well).

It would also be acceptable for the direction of shifting of the abovedescribed optical member 238 not to be the left and right direction asshown in the example of FIGS. 37( a) and 37(b), provided that it can beshifted so as to be positioned with the region 238 a or the region 238 bupon the optical path from the PBS block 228 upwards in FIGS. 37( a) and37(b). Moreover, a structure would also be acceptable in which, bymaking the optical member 238 that includes the region 238 a and theregion 238 b in the shape of a disk, the region 238 a or the region 238b may be shifted onto the optical path from the PBS block 228 upwards inFIGS. 37( a) and 37(b) by rotating this disk shaped optical member 238.

It would also be acceptable to endow the mirror within the region 238 adescribed above with a curvature. By imparting a magnification to themirror, during emission of auxiliary photographic light (in thephotographic mode), the range of the ray bundle that is emitted from theprojection optical system 221 as the P polarized light component is madeto be broader than the range of the ray bundle that is emitted from theprojection optical system 221 as the S polarized light component, sothat it is possible to illuminate a broader range.

It would also be acceptable to arrange to substitute the heatdissipation member of the projection module with a cooling block. FIG.38 is a figure for explanation of an example in which a cooling block230 is provided, instead of the heat dissipation member 270 of theprojection module shown by way of example in FIG. 10. A structure mayalso be utilized in which these cooling methods for the projectionmodule are combined, with the heat dissipation member 270 and thecooling block 230 provided with a cooling fan being appropriatelycombined together.

The embodiments explained above are only examples; the present inventionis not limited in any way to the structure of the embodiments that havebeen described. Moreover, the first through the sixth embodiment, andthe variant embodiments #1 through #31 and the variant embodiments #1and #2 of the projection module, may be combined in any desired manner,as appropriate.

While the present invention has been explained, by way of example, interms of an electronic camera with incorporated projector, it could alsobe applied to a projection device, a portable telephone device withincorporated projector, a PDA (personal digital assistant) withincorporated projector, a sound recording and replay device withincorporated projector, or to a similar type of electronic device,provided that it is a device to which a projection unit 220 is mounted.

Although various embodiments and variant embodiments have been explainedin the above description, the present invention is not to be consideredto be limited to the details thereof. Other possibilities that may beconsidered to fall within the range of the technical concept of thepresent invention are also included within the scope of the presentinvention.

The contents of the disclosure of the following application, upon whichpriority is claimed, are herein incorporated by reference:

Japanese Patent Application 2006-097340 (filed on Mar. 31, 2006).

1. A projection device, comprising: a plate shaped member that isthermally conductive; a light emitting element that is disposed upon theplate shaped member and emits light; a bending member that bends lightfrom the light emitting element into an orientation parallel to theplate shaped member; a modulation element that modulates light bent bythe bending member; and a polarized light separation element that bendslight modulated by the modulation element into an orientation going awayfrom the plate shaped member.
 2. A projection device according to claim1, wherein at least the light emitting element, the modulation element,and the polarized light separation element are integrated with the plateshaped member, and the polarized light separation element and themodulation element are joined to each other directly.
 3. A projectiondevice according to claim 2, wherein: the modulation element is areflective type liquid crystal element; in the polarized lightseparation element, a predetermined surface upon which non-reflectiveprocessing has been performed is joined to a surface of the plate shapedmember on which the light emitting element is disposed; and thepolarized light separation element passes a first polarized lightcomponent of the light that is bent by the bending member to be parallelwith the plate shaped member, to be conducted to the reflective typeliquid crystal element, bends a second polarized light component of thelight that is bent by the bending member to be parallel with the plateshaped member, that is different from the first polarized lightcomponent, to be conducted to the predetermined surface, and also bendslight modulated by the reflective type liquid crystal element into anorientation going away from the plate shaped member.
 4. A projectiondevice according to claim 2, further comprising: an illumination opticalsystem that projects light emitted by the light emitting element in anorientation going away from the plate shaped member; and a projectionoptical system that projects the modulated light that has been bent bythe polarized light separation element into an orientation going awayfrom the plate shaped member, wherein: the bending member is configuredso as to be shiftable onto an optical path of light emitted by the lightemitting element and away from the optical path; and when the bendingmember is shifted onto the optical path, the modulated light is emittedfrom the projection optical system, where as, when the bending member isshifted away from the optical path, the projected light is emitted fromthe illumination optical system.
 5. A projection device according toclaim 1, further comprising: a cooling unit that cools the plate shapedmember from a surface on which the light emitting element is disposed,or from a rear surface of the surface.
 6. A projection device,comprising: a member that is thermally conductive, and that has twosurfaces that mutually intersect; a light emitting element that isprovided upon one of the surfaces of the member, and that emits light inan orientation parallel to the other surface of the member; a modulationelement that modulates light from the light emitting element; and apolarized light separation element that bends light modulated by themodulation element into an orientation going away from the other surfaceof the member.
 7. A projection device according to claim 6, wherein atleast the light emitting element, the modulation element, and thepolarized light separation element are integrated with the member, andthe polarized light separation element and the modulation element arejoined to each other directly.
 8. A projection device according to claim7, wherein: the modulation element is a reflective type liquid crystalelement; in the polarized light separation element, a predeterminedsurface upon which non-reflective processed has been performed is joinedto the other surface of the member; and the polarized light separationelement passes a first polarized light component of light parallel tothe other surface to be conducted to the reflective type liquid crystalelement, bends a second polarized light component of the light that isparallel to the other surface, that is different from the firstpolarized light component, to be conducted to the predetermined surface,and also bends light modulated by the reflective type liquid crystalelement into an orientation going away from the member.
 9. A projectiondevice according to claim 7, further comprising: an optical member thathas a non-reflective processed region and a reflective processingregion, wherein: the modulation element is a reflective type liquidcrystal element; the optical member is configured so as to be shiftablealong a predetermined surface of the polarized light separation element;(1) when the non-reflective processed region of the optical member isshifted so as to oppose the predetermined surface, the polarized lightseparation element passes through a first polarized light component ofthe light parallel to the other surface to be conducted to thereflective type liquid crystal element, bends a second polarized lightcomponent of the light parallel to the other surface, that is differentfrom the first polarized light component, to be conducted to thenon-reflective processed region, and also bends light modulated by thereflective type liquid crystal element into an orientation going awayfrom the member; and (2) when the reflective processing region of theoptical member is shifted so as to oppose the predetermined surface, thepolarized light separation element passes through a first polarizedlight component of the light parallel to the other surface to beconducted to the reflective type liquid crystal element, bends a secondpolarized light component of the light parallel to the other surface,that is different from the first polarized light component, to beconducted to the reflective processed region, passes through light of apolarized light component reflected by the reflective processing regionto be conducted in an orientation going away from the member, and bendslight modulated by the reflective type liquid crystal element into anorientation going away from the member.
 10. A projection deviceaccording to claim 6, further comprising: an optical system that emitslight in an orientation going away from the other surface of the member.11. A projection device according to claim 6, further comprising: acooling unit that cools a rear surface of the member on which the lightemitting element is disposed.
 12. A projection device, comprising: alight emitting element that emits light; a modulation element thatmodulates light from the light emitting element; and a polarized lightseparation element that bends light modulated by the modulation element,wherein the modulation element and the polarized light separationelement are directly joined together.
 13. A projection device accordingto claim 12, wherein the modulation element comprises a cover glass upona surface that is joined to the polarized light separation element. 14.A projection device according to claim 12, wherein the modulationelement comprises a color filter.